Support Local Businesses by Following COVID-19 Safety Procedures and Preventative Actions

To encourage the reopening of our local economy and instill consumer confidence, the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce, Representative Kate Klunk, and Main Street Hanover are reinforcing COVID-19 safety procedures and preventative actions for businesses and consumers. These include, but are not limited to, the COVID-19 vaccine, dedicated mask-wearing, and diligent social distancing.

As we approach the anniversary of COVID-19’s arrival in Hanover, we felt it necessary to review the importance of such actions and how they can continue to guide us all along the road to recovery.

The much-anticipated COVID-19 vaccine has arrived! While not everyone can get the vaccine at this time, those who can should make an appointment as soon as possible. “A vaccine is the best way to reach herd immunity against COVID,” states UPMC. “Scientists estimate that 70% to 90% of the population will need to become immune to COVID-19 for herd immunity to be reached. For that to happen, getting the vaccine is crucial.”

Other simple steps, like mask-wearing and social distancing, can help reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others. Even if you aren’t sick, you should wear a mask to protect others. As WellSpan Health states, “Remember this saying: "My mask protects you, your mask protects me."

In the months following COVID-19’s debut, mask-wearing has turned into a touchy subject. Despite proven efficacy, recent debate and politicization of mask-wearing continues to divide families, threaten the lives of fellow citizens, and delay the reopening of our economy. Don’t put your political views before your family, friends, and beloved local businesses!

Across the nation and locally, businesses are experiencing a spike in liability lawsuits surrounding masks and other safety measures and enforcement. When you don’t wear a mask, you put not only yourself at risk, but also your fellow community members, and every single local business trying to navigate these uncertain times.

In addition to local citizen compliance, a larger, national-scale movement needs to happen to protect our local businesses. The Hanover Chamber stands by the US Chamber in stating, "A national mask standard, implemented locally, offers the surest way to protect public health and promote economic recovery." The Hanover Chamber will continue to advocate for this standard to be implemented, as local business owners should have ease in understanding and enforcing safety guidelines that protect all citizens, and ultimately, our local economy.

Many local businesses are following the current guidelines to stay open, as their livelihoods depend on it. Those who are hesitant to shop and dine locally should have confidence that businesses who are following these guidelines are SAFE to support. We encourage local businesses to promote their adherence to the current safety guidelines so customers know they are protected when patronizing.

If there’s one thing that COVID-19 has taught us, it’s that the effects our choices are far-reaching. COVID-19 has placed us all on a common ground, as we have all been impacted by the virus in some way or another. Over the past year, we have learned so much, and while there is still so much to learn, we can start confidently and conscientiously taking steps in the right direction. Together, vaccination and following the CDC's recommendations will offer the best protection from COVID-19. If we all follow these guidelines, we will restore a sense of safety in our community and will be able to support our local businesses.