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Health & Safety is the Top Priority
When you and I were making our New Year's resolutions on the eve of 2020 we had no idea that somewhere in the middle of China the first cases of a new disease, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) was just starting.
A few short months later mass gatherings like sporting events, conferences, and festivals are being canceled.
This is having a big impact for small (and large) business owners in the entertainment industry.
Even Disneyland is closed!
The health and safety of your guests and workers is the top priority.
Now more than ever.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed.
But there are a few things that you can do to help protect your team and your business from the coronavirus.
Here are three ideas to help you navigate this unfolding situation.
So, while it is not healthy to be the news cycle 24/7 it is a good idea to tap into the news once a day to keep up to date. Avoid the tabloids that sensationalize the situation, instead, listen to credible sources like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Their web sites have the latest info.
Adhere to government directives.
Keep your eyes open for possible local government support for small and medium-sized businesses. You might consider writing to your local political representatives to ask for support. Especially as entertainment and tourist business operators, we need to lobby our government for support.
Help your staff and your customers to keep informed too. If you are still operating at the moment (and what extra precautions you are implementing), let them know. If you are closed, then let them know that too. Either way, reassure your community that you are here for them.
Yes, wash your hands. Health authorities say to wash for at least 20 seconds underwater, with a good lather of soap. Might sound a bit over-the-top but you can set a timer on your smartphone. Or simply sing your favorite song's chorus twice. (It doesn't matter if you go a bit over.)
The WHO reckons we should all wash our hands frequently:
If you can source some, then have a hand sanitizer available. Hand sanitizer is good for both your employees and your customers. Consider what other precautions you can put in place for the benefit of your customers and crew.
At the recent IAAPA "Coronavirus Protocols for Visitor Attractions" webinar, the speakers urged entertainment operators to practice good hygiene. Work with the resources you have.
When you work in the entertainment industry it is easy to forget how many people your team interacts with. While you cannot ensure everyone, who walks into your venue is healthy, you can help your employees stay safe.
The CDC recommends you bump up your cleaning regime.
If any employee is sick, swap their shift with someone else. Encourage your customers, that if they are sick to postpone their event.
For example, the AHPC Committee has recommended that participants should not attend and participate in Laser Tag events if they:
• Have traveled internationally or been exposed to a person with COVID-19 in the preceding 14 days; or
• Are at high risk including the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Don’t Panic.
This is a pandemic so we need to take precautions.
During this time of uncertainty, taking the time to get away from the screens, unplug, and refresh you and yours with some live gaming is one way to reduce anxiety and find some balance.
As the famous saying goes: "Keep Calm & Carry on!"
Do the best you can with the resources you have.
The year 2020 might just be the biggest roller coaster we've experienced.
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