BUSINESSES ADJUST TO OPENING UP
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FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020
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A Local Guide to Reopening Safely shop for groceries while social distancing
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s recently as a few months ago, grocery shopping was an uneventful chore that few people were likely to remember after returning home. But in the wake of efforts to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, grocery shopping changed in ways that few people will ever forget. Social distancing guidelines and recommendations urged consumers to stay in their homes as much as possible, but grocery shopping requires people to spend time outside their homes. A few simple strategies can help shoppers stay safe as they shop for groceries. Wear a mask. Safety guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are evolving as scientists learn more about COVID-19. One of the more significant changes the CDC made to its initial guidelines was to recommend people wear cloth face coverings in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. As communities begin to reopen, certain restrictions may be relaxed, but the CDC continues to advise people to wear masks while out in public, including when shopping for groceries. The CDC notes that wearing masks may slow the spread of the virus by preventing people who have it but are asymptomatic from transmitting it to others. Shop during off-peak hours. Traditionally “off-peak” hours may no longer apply at many grocery stores, the majority of which have changed their store hours so staff can thoroughly clean and disinfect stores each night. But even if stores are not open as late as they used to be, there’s still times of day when fewer customers will likely be in the store. Early mornings may be designated for shoppers in vulnerable populations, such as the elderly.
However, many stores remain less crowded in the mornings than they are during the rest of the day. Avoid shopping on weekends if you want to steer clear of crowds, as these are the only times when people who are still working can find time to shop. Weekday mornings or late afternoons may be ideal times to shop for shoppers who want to avoid crowds. Wash hands before and after going to the store. The CDC continues to tout the importance of washing hands as a means to preventing the spread of COVID-19. Scientists are still unsure about how easily the virus can spread from contact with potentially contaminated surfaces, but washing hands before and after shopping is a simple safety measure that prevents the spread of germs and potentially harmful viruses like COVID-19. Avoid touching your face. The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology note that respiratory infections can be caused by an assortment of bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing See GROCERIES, B9
How small businesses can prepare to reopen
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s spring slowly gave way to summer, communities everywhere gradually began to
reopen. After months of adhering to stay-athome restrictions implemented in response to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19, businesses were allowed to reopen if they followed certain guidelines. Reopening a business after months of closures or limited operations is uncharted territory for many small business owners. In recognition of the anxiety some small business owners may feel about reopening, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce offers the following tips to ensure the transition back to business is safe and smooth.
Start before opening your doors
Though economies in many parts of the globe are reopening, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is still recommending that people adhere to social distancing guidelines when leaving their homes. Business owners can help consumers follow those rules by preparing their offices and establishments for life in the age of social distancing. The CDC recommends that people maintain distances of at least six feet between one another while out in public. To assist in this recommendation, business owners mark every six feet in their stores near checkout lines and cash registers to make it easier for customers to
shop and stay socially distant at the same time. Offices preparing to welcome employees back can create more distance between work stations.
Get creative with scheduling.
Offices can establish days when certain workers come into the office while others work remotely and vice versa. This is similar to job sharing. The alternating work hours, allows employees to get out of the house and do some work in the office while making social distancing in an office setting that much easier.
Make a plan to monitor employees’ health
The health of employees is a big concern for small business owners on the cusp of reopening their facilities to consumers and workers. The COC advises business owners to create employee wellness plans to monitor the health of their employees. See REOPEN, B9
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B2 · FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020 · THE SIGNAL
How diners can prepare to go out as restaurants reopen
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any communities across the globe have begun to gradually reopen. That’s good news for the millions of small businesses that have struggled as the world responded with extreme caution to prevent the potentially deadly COVID-19 virus from spreading. Estimates from the National Restaurant Association indicate that restaurant sales in the United States decreased by tens of billions of dollars in March and April, while forecasts predicted those numbers would be in the hundreds of billions by the end of the 2020. In recognition of the vital roles restaurants play in building and fostering strong communities, consumers are looking forward to
returning to their favorite establishments as economies slowly reopen. Diners can do their part to make reopening efforts successful and sustainable by staying home if they are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19. Venturing out while symptomatic puts everyone, including restaurant workers and fellow diners, at risk, so it’s imperative that people pay attention to their bodies and avoid going out if they are experiencing even mild symptoms. In addition to staying home if they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, diners can take these steps to work in partnership with local restaurants as these vital components of the community begin to reopen.
Dine out in small groups. Phase 1 reopening guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended gatherings be limited to no more than 10 people. But when dining out, consumers should keep their groups even smaller. An assortment of studies from the CDC have found that the virus is easily spread among groups of people in enclosed spaces. By limiting dinner parties to no more than the number of people in their households, consumers can help restaurants safely reopen. Wear masks. Wearing a mask to a restaurant may seem odd, but by keeping their mask on until their food arrives, diners can help prevent the spread of the virus. The World Health Organization notes that it’s believed the virus can spread through small respiratory droplets produced while talking or laughing. So diners can keep themselves and fellow customers and restaurant workers safe by wearing their masks until their food arrives.
Remain patient. Life in the era of social distancing requires significant adjustments, and restaurants reopening will be adjusting right along with everyone else. Afford restaurant staff ample patience and go along with any protocols restaurant owners put in place. All measures are aimed at keeping customers and staff safe while getting people who have been out of work for months back on the job. Each of those goals is worth the patience it may take to help restaurants achieve them. Order takeout. If you’re uncomfortable visiting a local restaurant in person or frustrated by potentially long wait times for a table, order takeout instead. Restaurants need the business after a very rough stretch, and consumers can benefit greatly from a night off from cooking. Local restaurants are reopening in communities across the globe. Supporting these businesses can be vital to local economies and help millions of people return to work. (MC)
How to plan for a safe, secure road trip
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before embarking on your trip so you don’t have to visit the filling station while on the road. Bring enough water and snacks so you can stay hydrated and don’t become hungry while out and about.
ummer is often a time when families hit the open road. But 2020 is a year unlike any other, and veteran road trippers may wonder if it’s wise to take to the open road this year. The COVID-19 virus has forced local governments to implement various changes aimed at preventing the spread of the potentially deadly virus. While interstate travel during the outbreak is different, it’s not illegal. However, many states put specific policies in place that mandated out-of-state visitors self-quarantine for a certain period time, most often 14 days. Such measures compelled many would-be travelers to remain within the borders of their home states. But traveling need not be a relic of the past because of a pandemic. In fact, travel enthusiasts can hit the open road with their peace of mind intact, especially if they follow a few safety precautions while heading off for parts unknown.
Get a tuneup before your trip No one wants to confront car trouble during a road trip, and that’s especially so when traveling during a pandemic. A breakdown during a pandemic may force drivers to visit roadside body shops or arrange for tow trucks, potentially putting them at greater risk of getting COVID-19. Drivers should take their cars in for a tuneup before taking a road trip to lower that risk.
Avoid densely populated areas
Determine how far you really need to go
Restrictions have been lifted in many areas, but it’s still most convenient for drivers to stay somewhat close to home, ideally within their own states. That makes it easy for them to buy food, gas, use a restroom or visit a park or monument without violating the spirit of quarantine mandates. A trip need not cross borders to be fun.
Plan for fewer pitstops
The fewer stops drivers make on their trips, the lower
Take time to plan your trip before hitting the road. It will make the trip more enjoyable and safer. their risk of being exposed to the COVID-19 virus. In lieu of dining out during your trip, pack your lunch at home and take it with you. In addition, fill up your car
Avoid densely populated areas if you intend to get out of your vehicle. If you intend to get out of your vehicle during a road trip, avoid visiting areas that tend to draw large crowds. Popular lookout points may provide some beautiful fall views, but such points also draw crowds that may exceed the limits on group gatherings recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state health agencies. It’s possible to travel during these times. But drivers must take extra precautions to reduce their risk of being exposed to potentially deadly viruses. (MC)
Free help for job-seekers, businesses
To view current postings at any given time, visit these pages on signalscv.com.
By Signal Staff
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s a community service during the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis, The Signal has two web pages designed to help businesses that are able to remain open and job seekers who are out of work due to the coronavirus pandemic. Submission forms can be found at signalscv.com. Businesses can provide information on the services they are providing — including any “special” offers or services — as well as any job openings they may have. Those submissions will then be posted and shared with the community on two pages on The Signal’s website.
Job openings page signalscv.com/covid19-jobs/ To post your business’ information and job listings, you can find the forms here. Job openings form https://signalscv.com/covid19-jobs-form/ Businesses open form signalscv.com/covid19-businesses-form/
Be a part of The Signal’s 2020 - 2050 Time Capsule
Businesses open page https://signalscv.com/covid19-businesses/ The Signal is providing these services to businesses at no charge to help the community during the coronavirus situation. The goal is to help local businesses get the word out so they can weather this crisis, and to help job seekers find opportunities to generate income at a time when many people have been left without work due to the government-ordered shutdowns.”
Looking for something to eat?
2020 - 2050
Send your memories of the 2020 pandemic to capsule@signalscv.com
Here’s a map showing many of the Santa Clarita Valley restaurants and food establishments that are open and serving. Find the interactive map online at bit.ly/SignalSCVfoodmap or on the SignalSCV app. If you’d like to be added, contact citydesk@signalscv.com.
THE SIGNAL · FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020 · B3
How to handle traveling as economies reopen
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ommunities that have reopened or are on the cusp of reopening are feeling a complicated mix of emotions. While most people are no doubt happy to get out of the house, whether it’s to return to work or visit a favorite restaurant in person, those same people are probably somewhat hesitant to stray too far from home. Such feelings have made some wonder if it’s safe to travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that travel increases a person’s chances of getting and spreading COVID-19. But not all travel is the same, and the CDC notes there are different levels of risk associated with different types of travel. Air travel Time spent in security lines and airport terminals brings travelers in close contact with other people and frequently touched surfaces. While airplane cabins are filtered, which makes it difficult for viruses and other germs to spread through the air, social distancing is difficult on crowded flights. That difficulty can increase the chances of airline passengers spreading COVID-19 to each other. Bus/train travel Social distancing on buses and trains also is difficult, increasing the likelihood that COVID-19 will spread among passengers. Car travel Short car trips can be safe, but long car trips involve pulling over for gas, food and restroom breaks. That puts drivers and their traveling
companions at risk of exposure to COVID-19 from other travelers or contaminated surfaces. RV travel Recreational vehicles, or RVs, are typically equipped with restrooms and kitchenettes, which can cut down on the need to make potentially risky pitstops. But RVs also tend to be parked in overnight RV parks so travelers can sleep. Such places may make travelers vulnerable to COVID-19. Much is still unknown about COVID-19. In fact, many people do not even know if they have had the virus or not. Scientists suspect that millions of people have been exposed to the virus but produced no symptoms. Because of that uncertainty, many people are willing to travel as economies reopen. The CDC recommends that such people adhere to local travel restrictions and take steps to anticipate travel needs before departing so they can minimize the chances that they are exposed to the virus. Bring enough medicine to last you for the entire trip. If need be, call your physician and request refills to serve as a safety net in case medication is lost during your travels.
Not all travel is the same, and the CDC notes there are different levels of risk associated with different types of travel.
Pack enough alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60 percent alcohol) and keep it within reach at all times during your trip.
such coverings be routinely washed, so bring enough clean coverings to last the trip if you will not have access to a washer and dryer.
Bring cloth face coverings to wear in public places. The CDC advises
Prepare food and water for your trip. Pack non-perishable food in case
restaurants and stores are closed. Travel remains risky, even as economies reopen. People who intend to travel can take certain precautions to make their trips as safe as possible. (MC)
Travel insurance often excludes pandemics
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s various parts of the world begin to slowly reopen, people looking forward to traveling or vacationing should know that many travel insurance policies do not provide coverage for travelers who decide to cancel their plans due to concerns about a pandemic. According to AARP, many insurance companies explicitly state in travel insurance policies that pandemics are excluded as reasons for canceling a trip. Travel insurance providers note that exclusion exists because pandemics are extremely unpredictable, which makes it difficult to properly assess the risk of one happening when determining the cost of a policy. In the wake of the COVID-19
outbreak, some travel insurance providers expressed a willingness to be flexible, with some even offering refunds to customers who became ill with the virus prior to their trips. However, such flexibility is not uniform, and travelers, such as those who have not tested positive for the virus, may need to find alternative solutions if they do not want to travel but have already booked vacations. Travel agents or others who helped book travel reservations may be willing to serve as intermediaries between travelers and hotels or rental property owners to increase the chances that vacationers are not stuck paying for vacations they have no intention of taking.(MC)
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B4 · FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020 · THE SIGNAL
A risk guide to help restaurants as they confront the challenge of reopening Lowest Risk: Food service limited to drive-through, delivery, takeout, and curbside pick up.
More Risk: Drive-through, delivery, takeout, and curbside pick up emphasized. On-site dining limited to outdoor seating. Seating capacity reduced to allow tables to be spaced at least six feet apart.
Even More Risk: On-site dining with both indoor and outdoor seating. Seating capacity reduced to allow tables to be spaced at least six feet apart.
Highest Risk: On-site dining with both indoor and outdoor seating. Seating capacity not reduced and tables not spaced at least six feet apart.
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estaurants have struggled in the wake of the outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. As communities prepare to reopen, customers cannot wait for their favorite restaurants to reopen, and restaurant
owners are looking forward to welcoming guests back to their establishments. As much as everyone is looking forward to restaurants reopening on a wide scale, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that the more an
individual interacts with others, and the longer that interaction, the higher the risk of spreading COVID-19 becomes. Managing that reality with their desire to reopen their businesses can be challenging for restaurant owners. To help
restaurant owners confront that challenge, the CDC offers the above guide to help the proprietors of these vital businesses gauge the safest way to reopen their facilities to hungry customers. (MC)
Preparing your store for hesitant shoppers
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usiness owners cannot predict what the future holds, but many are hopeful that the 2020 holiday retail season will provide a muchneeded boost to their bottom lines. The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 led to plunging revenues for small businesses across the globe, forcing some to close their doors for good while others had to lay off or furlough staff to stay afloat. The holiday season is a lucrative time for retailers, and while small business owners are hopeful consumers will return this December, they may need to go the extra mile to calm any safety concerns their customers may have. Officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have warned about the potential for a second wave of COVID-19 infections in late 2020, and that could compel holiday shoppers to stay home and shop online rather than in person. While it’s wise for small business owners to improve their e-commerce capabilities so shoppers find it easier to buy their products online, business
owners also can follow these CDC-recommended procedures to prepare their stores for shoppers concerned by the COVID-19 virus.
Cleaning
When cleaning a store, the CDC advises owners and their employees to wear disposable gloves. Surfaces should first be cleaned with soap and water, and then disinfectant should be applied. That’s because soap and water and disinfectant perform different functions. Soap and water reduces the number of germs, dirt and impurities on surfaces, while disinfectant kills any remaining germs. Stores with heavy foot traffic should be cleaned frequently, but all stores require daily cleaning to keep customers safe. Store owners can devise their own cleaning schedules, but those whose stores are routinely welcoming customers throughout the day should plan to clean and disinfectant their facilities several times per day. The CDC advises paying special attention to high touch surfaces such as
Our doors may still be closed, but we’re here for you! Reach us by phone or email. In-person assistance is available by appointment only. Need Payment Assistance? If you’re facing an unexpected financial hardship, call so we can figure out a payment plan you can afford.
doorknobs, handles, countertops, and tables.
Disinfecting
The CDC recommends using household disinfectants registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, a list of which is available at https:// www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/listn-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2covid-19. When using disinfectants, business owners and their employees should wear skin protection and consider protective eyewear to protect against potential splash hazards. Ensure adequate ventilation when using disinfectants, opening windows if need be. Follow manufacturer application recommendations, which should be listed on product labels. Avoid mixing chemicals, such as household bleach with ammonia or any other cleansers.
Electronics
The CDC urges business owners to use wipeable covers on electronics to further reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. Such covers also can calm customers’ nerves and reassure them that business owners are taking every safety measure possible to ensure their health.
Efforts
Businesses should post their policies regarding cleaning and disinfecting in full view of customers. Such postings can reduce customer anxieties. In addition, business owners can inform customers they are willing to offer delivery or curbside pickup to anyone who’s hesitant to enter stores this holiday season. Opportunity awaits small business owners this holiday season. Taking every step to clean and disinfect their stores each day can reassure potential customers who may be hesitant to shop in person. (MC)
6 Steps for Safe & Effective Disinfectant Use Step 1: Check that your product is EPA-approved
Find the EPA registration number on the product. Then, check to see if it is on EPA’s list of approved disinfectants at: epa.gov/listn
Step 2: Read the directions
Speak to Customer Care Newhall: 661-294-0828 Santa Clarita: 661-259-2737 Valencia: 661-294-0828 Email Customer Care
@
Newhall: ccare_nwd@scvwa.org Santa Clarita: ccare_scwd@scvwa.org Valencia: ccare_vwd@scvwa.org
Follow the product’s directions. Check “use sites” and “surface types” to see where you can use the product. Read the “precautionary statements.”
Step 3: Pre-clean the surface
Make sure to wash the surface with soap and water if the directions mention pre-cleaning or if the surface is visibly dirty.
Step 4: Follow the contact time
You can find the contact time in the directions. The surface should remain wet the whole time to ensure the product is effective.
Step 5: Wear gloves and wash your hands For disposable gloves, discard them after each cleaning. For reusable gloves, dedicate a pair to disinfecting COVID-19. Wash your hands after removing the gloves.
External drop-boxes are available at each Customer Care location, available 24/7. For more information, visit yourSCVwater.com/customer-care
Step 6: Lock it up Keep lids tightly closed and store out of reach of children.
coronavirus.gov Infographic courtesy Environmental Protection Agency
THE SIGNAL · FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020 · B5
B6 · FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020 · THE SIGNAL
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VisitSantaClarita.com/SaferBusinessCommitment
THE SIGNAL · FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020 · B7
City launches ‘Safer Business Commitment’ By Signal Staff
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he city of Santa Clarita has announced the launch of its “Safer Business Commitment” as a part of the Shop Local initiative. Under the program, local businesses commit to abide by a specific set of safety guidelines. In doing so, customers know that it is safe to patronize those businesses. “By making the commitment, local businesses can show that safety is their No. 1 priority and help to ease potential health concerns of wouldbe patrons,” Mayor Cameron Smyth said in a prepared statement. Santa Clarita Valley businesses can make the commitment by completing an online form, which adds each business to a published list of “Safer” businesses that customers can then view online. “Businesses are working hard to regain the confidence of COVID-wary customers and staff, and this commitment demonstrates the collaboration of reopening safely together as a community and restarting our economy,” Holly Schroeder, president and CEO of the SCV Economic Development Corp., said in the statement.
Eight promise points Use of face coverings Practicing physical distancing Conducting temperature checks on employees Providing hand sanitizer Intensifying cleaning and disinfection Implementing contactless payment, when possible Providing general COVID-19 awareness training for employees Ensuring employees, customers and vendors stay home when feeling ill Any size business in any industry throughout the SCV is invited to make the commitment, which includes a list of safety guidelines and best practices, issued by the Centers for Disease Control and L.A. County Department of Public Health. The “Safer Business Commitment” website includes eight points of promise from businesses, including using face coverings, practicing social distancing, providing hand sanitizer, intensifying disinfection protocols and providing COVID-19 training for employees, according to city officials. “The SCV Chamber has worked in close partnership with the city and the county to get our businesses reopened, and we
ask that our business community work together and make the commitment,” added Ivan Volschenk of the SCV Chamber of Commerce. “Making this commitment and working together will help keep all of us safe and healthy and keep our businesses open and our community working.” The city is collaborating with a number of business leaders in the community, including the SCVEDC, SCV Chamber and Valley Industry Association, to support local businesses. For more information on “Safer Business Commitment,” visit Visit SantaClarita.com/Safer BusinessCommitment.
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B8 · FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020 · THE SIGNAL
How businesses adjust to opening up By Tammy Murga Signal Staff Writer
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hairs stacked on top of tables that have been pushed far from the entrance at restaurants. Hand sanitizer dispensers strategically installed at workstations and face coverings now donned along with uniforms. This is the new normal for many indoor businesses again in the Santa Clarita Valley. In Old Town Newhall, restaurants and other small businesses depend on each other to thrive, with Main Street attracting visitors from in and around the SCV to shop, grab a bite and drink and enjoy a live show at a local theater. But that momentum has completely upended, with Old Town Newhall now shifting gears toward more outdoor dining. Among the businesses adjusting to change is Old Town Junction, known as a sit-down, take-your-time eatery, which is thanking the community for supporting them throughout its transition. “We’re a sit-down, hang-out and enjoy your 2-hour meal kind of place and so this switch has been a really humbling experience to see how the community has switched gears to support us and allow us to keep feeding them,” said General Manager Mandy Meeks. “Realistically, that’s why you go into the restaurant business, because you love the human experience and having that little bit of connection with them taken away because of the virus is so difficult. So, it’s nice to still see people come in when they get their orders.” With dine-in options prohibited amid the safer-at-home order, the restaurant has, like many others, put away their chairs and tables to create a larger and more spacious area for customers to wait in line for their orders while adhering to physical distancing measures. Old Town Junction has also installed hand sanitizer stations, ordered masks for all employees that include the restaurant’s logo and is preparing protocols, such as not setting up tables and bringing silverware as needed when dine-in options are permitted. Despite ever-changing lockdown restrictions, with some regulations easing faster than others across the state and county and with Santa Clarita looking to reopen faster than other communities, Meeks said safety measures will still remain in place and businesses must be ready as more people return to work and customers begin to shop more freely. Over in the Valencia Auto Center, the car shopping experience has changed, according to Frontier Toyota General Manager Bob Corson. “Test driving alone has changed. They’re done with only one customer and with one sales representative seated behind for everyone’s safety,” he said. And in their showrooms and sales locations, which were only recently allowed to reopen in early May, car dealerships look a little different: There are plexiglass guards between masked and gloved customers and employees, an updated layout to provide sufficient distance between all those inside the buildings and enhanced sanitizing of anything anyone frequently touches, such as doorknobs, countertops and the cars themselves. While sales have been low among several sectors, dealerships have seen an increase in their service department. “(Service) is picking up because more people are home and taking this opportunity to get their oil changed or other service needs. There’s also very important recalls that need to be addressed but often people don’t find the time,” said Corson. Ahead of several others, Frontier Toyota in Valencia has implemented online orders and deliveries, which Corson said, “the timing (of online services) is amazing” to help businesses continue and keep customers safe.
Sales Consultants Bien Tarroza Jr. and Genardo Calzadillas stand next to a plastic customer-safety shield as they prepare for customers at Frontier Toyota. PHOTO BY DAN WATSON / THE SIGNAL And while many businesses today have seen an easier transition with online options to continue sales and services, not everyone has benefitted but they are making it work as restrictions ease. Among them is Rocket Fizz, a retailer with a selection of candy and bottled sodas in the hundreds, on Main Street in Newhall. “Some stuff is online but really we have hundreds of items for selection so it’s not possible to have it all and do curbside pickup,” said owner Greg Stoddard. The store, which saw a 40% drop in sales within the first month of the lockdown order and is now facing a 60% drop, is hoping to see a gradual increase in sales as more restrictions are lifted and more people return to Main Street. While post-safer-at-home communities will still look different from pre-COVID-19 times, businesses said they are prioritizing the safety of their customers and workers over marketing and profit despite the financial shortfalls. “We did not want to be in the marketing business amid the pandemic. The priority is the safety and wellness of our staff and customers,” said Corson. “We certainly understand the (public’s) concerns. We believe that we have gone above and beyond to make them feel safe. We, as a community, have shown over the past couple of years how we can unite and come out stronger and we will again through this crisis.” “As a restaurant and local business, we are doing our part to keep our guests safe — that is our priority,” said Meeks, adding that Old Town Junction has also been providing customers with groceries amid the pandemic. “We can do this; we can figure this out. I’m really confident in just seeing the community lean on each other and I think this will be an area where we will shine in.” While COVID-19 developments continue and much uncertainty still remains, many more businesses will soon receive the green light to reopen but they will have to adhere to several requirements establishments issued by the county. Here’s a brief look into the reopening protocol:
Protocol to reopen Workplace policies to protect employees Anyone who can conduct their work duties from home should be directed to do so, especially vulnerable staff. All employees must be told to stay home if they are sick.
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Email Customer Care Newhall: ccare_nwd@scvwa.org Santa Clarita: ccare_scwd@ scvwa.org Valencia: ccare_vwd@scvwa.org If we are unable to serve you by email or phone, in-person assistance is available by appointment only. External drop-boxes are also available at each Customer Care location, available 24/7.
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We understand that some customers may be facing unexpected financial hardships or struggling due to a loss of income. While late fees and shut-offs are still suspended, we encourage customers to stay as current as possible to avoid building up large balances. We are reaching out in understanding to our customers who have fallen behind in payments. Please call and let us work with you to establish a payment plan. Visit our Customer Care page for more information: yourSCVwater.com/ customer-care And as a friendly reminder, your water supply is safe. The COVID-19 coronavirus has no impact on the quality or supply of your tap water. We continue to operate our water system to ensure you receive reliable water service that meets all state and federal drinking water standards. We’re in this together and we’re here for you. Stay safe and healthy. For more information, visit: https://yourscvwater.com/covid-19coronavirus/
An employer should inform workers if one or more employees test positive for COVID-19 and should have a plan in place for the case(s) to self-isolate and for all those exposed to self-quarantine. Workers are offered face coverings at no cost and must be worn at all times during the shift when in contact or likely to come in contact with others. Masks are not required when an employee is alone in an office or a walled cubicle. Measures to ensure physical distancing If the site-entry space permits, customers are directed to one of two lines at the door: one for pickup of pre-ordered items, and one for on-site orders. For establishments that offer onsite
ordering, customers must remain in their vehicles or return in 15 minutes to obtain orders. Measures for infection control Contactless payment systems are in place or, if not feasible, payment systems are sanitized regularly. Customers are instructed that they must wear a face covering to receive service. Those with medical conditions that make use of a mask hazardous are exempted. For a complete look at the county’s protocol for retailers, visit publichealth. lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/docs/ protocols/Reopening-Retail.pdf.
THE SIGNAL · FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020 · B9
Stay safe when visiting reopened parks
Visiting reopened parks while social distancing is not the same as it’s been in the past, and nature enthusiasts may want to consider these dos and don’ts.
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hysical activity is good for both the body and mind. As the world confronted the fallout of the COVID-19 outbreak, many people struggled to cope with the stress sparked by stay-at-home measures, school closures and job loss. Perhaps that’s why the reopening of parks was met with such joy, as people now had access to the great outdoors at a point when that access could be incredibly beneficial. Visiting reopened parks while social distancing is not the same as it’s been in the past, and nature enthusiasts may want to consider these dos and don’ts, courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to ensure their visits are safe and enjoyable.
DO stay close to home
The CDC warns that traveling long distances to visit a park may contribute to the spread of COVID-19. That’s because long trips require stops along the way, which exposes travelers to potentially contaminated surfaces.
DON’T visit parks if you’re sick
Whether you’re sick with COVID-19 or simply not feeling well, stay home. Visit the CDC website (www.cdc.gov) for a list of COVID-19 symptoms if you suspect you have the virus or have had it in the last 14 days.
DO expect limitations on visitors
While parks have reopened, many areas have established restrictions on the number of people allowed in the park at
a given time. As a result, some visitors have been turned away or asked to wait in a queue until other visitors leave. Preparing for this outcome in advance can make it less frustrating to deal with.
DON’T use playgrounds
Children may be anxious to ride on swings or climb all over jungle gyms, but the CDC continues to advise against using playgrounds. Playgrounds tend to be crowded and, as a result, they can be challenging to keep clean. In addition, young children likely won’t remember to avoid touching their faces, noses, eyes, or mouths while playing, which makes them more vulnerable to COVID-19.
DO exercise caution in swimming pools
The CDC notes that the chlorine and
bromine in pools should kill COVID-19, but warns that it’s still imperative to practice social distancing when swimming in public pools. Clean hands thoroughly before entering and after exiting the pool, and make sure each swimmer takes a shower immediately upon arriving home.
DON’T participate in organized sports
The CDC is still advising people to avoid organized sports like basketball, baseball, soccer, and football. These sports typically require participation of people who do not live in the same households, increasing the chances of spreading the COVID-19 virus. Diligence and caution can help everyone safely enjoy reopened parks. (MC)
What to expect from the next phase of reopenings
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f course, a lot of this is speculation. However, life is slowly returning to something resembling normal in many parts of the world. As communities gradually reopen, people who have grown accustomed to stay-at-home measures are venturing out for the first time in months. Communities are approaching the reopening of their economies in various ways, and residents are urged to learn about the regulations issued by their local governments before venturing out. Communities are using their own terminology, but for many the next phase is a big step forward marked by the reopening of restaurants and other places where people gather in relatively large groups. The following are some ways that communities have approached the next phase.
Gatherings
Restrictions regarding gatherings vary widely. For example, in Illinois gatherings of 10 people or fewer are allowed during Phase 3, while in Pennsylvania gatherings of more than 250 people are prohibited. Meanwhile, in Florida gatherings of up to 50 people were allowed during Phase 2. These figures only serve to illustrate
just how differently each state is responding to COVID-19. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, as of July 14, “gatherings of people who are not part of a single household or living unit are prohibited.”
Restaurants
Restaurant owners are excited to reopen indoor dining during the next phase, and consumers are anxious to support these vital components of their communities. Phase 3 restaurant reopenings vary by region, but in many places only establishments that can provide outdoor dining are allowed to welcome in-person diners. Currently, only outdoor-dining is permitted in Santa Clarita. When visiting restaurants, diners should expect to wear masks when entering facilities, even if they’re only entering to get to outdoor dining areas. In addition, expect restaurant staff, including hosts/hostesses, waitstaff and bartenders, to wear masks and gloves at all times.
Indoor recreation and wellness
Gyms and spas have been hit hard by
stay-at-home restrictions, and are currently closed locally.
Entertainment
Entertainment options like casinos, movie theaters and shopping malls will also reopen in many areas during the next phase. Phase 3 restrictions vary significantly
REOPENING Continued from B1
COC recommendations include: Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) or face coverings for all employees, Institute daily temperature checks to enter a workplace and Encourage employees to self-report any symptoms via daily symptom surveys. Implement safety measures that govern the handling of physical items. Reopening is a team effort that requires cooperation between consumers and businesses. Each group can do their part by recognizing the need to change how physical items are handled. Cashless payments at registers can minimize the risk of virus transmission. However, businesses must recognize that some consumers may not have access to credit or debit cards, and it may be necessary to develop a contingency plan to accommodate such customers. Communicate plans clearly. The CDC notes the importance of clearly communicating a strategy to customers and employees so each understands their role in mitigating COVID-related risks. Reiterate messages in-store and through transactional touchpoints and be ready to adapt the strategy as the situation changes. Reopening is a tall task for small business owners. But it’s a challenge they can confront together with their staffs and customers working in concert. (MC)
Reopening Special Section Editor Doña Uhrig
GROCERIES Continued from B1
germs. Scientists believe COVID-19 is spread through the respiratory droplets of infected persons. These droplets are essentially invisible, but when people come into contact with them and then touch their eyes, nose or mouth, viruses can spread. So people should avoid touching their face with potentially dirty hands. Grocery shopping has changed as the world reacts to the COVID-19 virus. As communities begin to reopen, it’s important that people remain diligent when shopping for groceries, taking every step necessary to protect themselves and others from contracting this potentially deadly virus. (MC)
from state to state. Residents anxious to get out are urged to study the restrictions in their area so they can be sure they’re safe and in compliance with local regulations. For more information about current restrictions, visit https://santaclarita emergency.com/ (MC)
B10 · FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020 · THE SIGNAL
IT’S TIME TO
Santa Clarita Safer Business Commitment EAT LOCAL SHOP LOCAL
STAY SAFE Add your business to the list of Santa Clarita Safer Businesses at
VisitSantaClarita.com/SaferBusinessCommitment