How to remain safe during small business gatherings

When we raised our glasses on New Year’s Eve to ring in a new year millions of people were probably hoping for the changes 2020 would bring and nobody could have expected the events that would unfold just a few short months later. There is no denying the Coronavirus (COVID-19) changed the world from everything we do including the way we dine, learn, conduct business, socialize, parent our children, and just about everything in-between. The number of positive cases and incidents changes daily, and with that, new regulations. If you’re part of a team that needs to meet to conduct business, you know how important face-to-face interaction is and luckily there are still ways to meet while still being safe.

Temporarily, meeting room rentals are allowed for groups of 10 or fewer only in Dane County. Here at the Wisconsin Masonic Center we have taken the precautions and are ready to assist you with your next business meeting. Our meeting room options are well-ventilated and open spaces, and receive routine disinfection. Maintaining social distancing is also one of the most important ways to reduce the risk of infection.

But what is social distancing?

Social distancing also called “physical distancing,” means keeping a safe space between yourself and other people who are not from your household.
To practice social or physical distancing, stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people who are not from your household in both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Social distancing should be practiced in combination with other everyday preventive actions to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including wearing cloth face coverings, avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands, and frequently washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Tips for Social Distancing

When going out in public, it is important to stay at least 6 feet away from other people and wear a cloth face covering to slow the spread of COVID-19. Consider the following tips for practicing social distancing when you decide to go out.

Know Before You Go: Before going out, know and follow the guidance from local public health authorities where you live.

Prepare for Transportation: Consider social distancing options to travel safely when running errands or commuting to and from work, whether walking, bicycling, wheelchair rolling, or using public transit, rideshares, or taxis. When using public transit, try to keep at least 6 feet from other passengers or transit operators – for example, when you are waiting at a bus station or selecting seats on a bus or train. When using rideshares or taxis, avoid pooled rides where multiple passengers are picked up, and sit in the back seat in larger vehicles so you can remain at least 6 feet away from the driver. Follow these additional tips to protect yourself while using transportation.

Limit Contact When Running Errands: Only visit stores selling household essentials in person when you absolutely need to, and stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household while shopping and in lines. If possible, use drive-thru, curbside pick-up, or delivery services to limit face-to-face contact with others. Maintain physical distance between yourself and delivery service providers during exchanges and wear a cloth face covering.

Choose Safe Social Activities: It is possible to stay socially connected with friends and family who don’t live in your home by calling, using video chat, or staying connected through social media. If meeting others in person (e.g., at small outdoor gatherings, yard or driveway gathering with a small group of friends or family members), stay at least 6 feet from others who are not from your household. Follow these steps to stay safe if you will be participating in personal and social activities outside of your home.

Keep Distance at Events and Gatherings: It is safest to avoid crowded places and gatherings where it may be difficult to stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not from your household. If you are in a crowded space, try to keep 6 feet of space between yourself and others at all times, and wear a cloth face covering. Cloth face coverings are especially important in times when physical distancing is difficult. Pay attention to any physical guides, such as tape markings on floors or signs on walls, directing attendees to remain at least 6 feet apart from each other in lines or at other times. Allow other people 6 feet of space when you pass by them in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Stay Distanced While Being Active: Consider going for a walk, bike ride, or wheelchair roll in your neighborhood or in another safe location where you can maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and other pedestrians and cyclists. If you decide to visit a nearby park, trail, or recreational facility, first check for closures or restrictions. If open, consider how many other people might be there and choose a location where it will be possible to keep at least 6 feet of space between yourself and other people who are not from your household.

Remember, the current COVID practices may change over time, so periodically check CDC and other resources for guidance and best practices updates. And be sure to reach out to us for your future holiday and christmas party gatherings as well as spring 2021 venue rentals. Click Here to learn more about hosting an event with us.

At the Wisconsin Masonic Center, your health and safety is always first and foremost. Whether you are planning a business meeting/conference, wedding reception, banquet, musical performance, gallery or benefit, the Wisconsin Masonic Center has what you need. We have a variety of rooms to suit your event needs. No membership required. The Wisconsin Masonic Center is a unique, Art Deco, and versatile venue that is in close proximity to the State Capitol. We are here to help you with all your event needs. Contact us today or visit us on Facebook!

Sources:
https://www.cityofmadison.com/news/dane-county-issues-new-order-limiting-gatherings-bar-and-restaurant-activity
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html