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Saturday, 21 March 2020 15:40

COVID-19 tips for Rist Canyon residents

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We know you have probably been getting bombarded by COVID-19 emails by everyone from your friends/relatives to companies you didn't even know had your contact information. RCVFD doesn't want to add its voice to that crowd, but there are a few things we would like to suggest that may have a bit more relevance to our community.
  • If you want general information about the virus, recommendations about staying safe and healthy, and what to do if you get sick, check out our website. It has links to various other agencies as well as some great tips.

  • Our local businesses need our help, especially in the Laporte area. Many of them are still open in limited ways such as take-out service, and don't forget how supportive they were to all of us during the High Park Fire. Now is our chance to reciprocate.

  • Our neighbors may need our help, too. Do you know someone in a high-risk demographic? Perhaps they are older, or have health issues that make the virus more dangerous for them. Chances are they are significantly more isolated than average in the hopes of avoiding infection. Offer to plow their driveway, split their wood, pick up some groceries for them, or bring them a pizza.

  • Some of our neighbors are also businesses. While you may not feel comfortable going to a barber, nail salon, or massage therapist in town, perhaps one of your neighbors is one of these professions. Maybe they are out of work or have lost a large chunk of their customers because of the virus, and they could really use your business.

  • Our internet options are limited up here, but many of us have land-line phones. If you haven't already, now is a good time to exchange contact information with your neighbors in case it is needed later.

  • Speaking of phones, sign up for Reverse 911 right away. Also known as LETA, this program lets the county's emergency services contact you if there is an urgent need to do so. Like it or not, we will be entering wildland fire season soon, and knowing as early as possible about a threat impacting your safety is vital.

RCVFD is still planning on responding as usual, but be aware that as the situation changes, our response protocols will also change - we may make a more guarded response than normal, for example. We have taken steps to continue training and operational meetings while avoiding doing so face-to-face, so that we can protect ourselves as well as maintain an adequate "responder pool" in case we are needed. Help us keep our community safe by doing your part!

Jeff Elsner, Chief
Rist Canyon Volunteer Fire Department
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