Facts, not fear, will get us through these tough times

Information and opinions change more frequently than a baby’s diaper on the topic of coronavirus (COVID-19), depending on where you are getting your information. We are fortunate to live in an area that is highly self-reliant and supportive of helping others, but yet we see the results of people who panic. Who would have thought that you can’t find a roll of toilet paper in many stores with their inventory being “wiped” out on a regular basis.

There is a lot that can be done if you listen to trusted sources and allow some common sense steps that have been recommended to help prevent the spread of not only coronavirus but also the common cold and flu. You have heard, and I am sure know, that regular washing of your hands, using hand sanitizer, covering your cough, not touching your face, and staying home when you feel ill can decrease your chance of catching or spreading disease.

The precautions that are being taken for this virus are designed to help stop the spread of the virus and it will cause all of us some inconvenience, but it is important that we take extra precautionary steps to slow the spread. Many events can be rescheduled, some types of work can be adjusted to allow less public interaction. If we can remember to prepare and not panic, to expect some interruptions to our normal routines, then we can carry on until this situation becomes more stable.

As first responders, medical, fire, and law enforcement we will all continue to respond and handle the emergencies as before, but we will also be doing more to identify at risk persons and taking appropriate protective actions if someone is showing symptoms and to protect our first responders. Boundary County Office of Emergency Management has been keeping the First Responders up to date on the latest recommendations and status of the virus. We will adjust as new information and recommendations come forward.

If you are not able to attend meetings, school, events or church services on a temporary basis, remember to do what we do best and that is to look after each other. Stay in contact with neighbors and friends over the phone, make sure the elderly have what they need including someone just staying in contact with them. Continue to support the local businesses whenever possible as they too will have a struggle through the challenges of this.

Use common sense, don’t panic and we will get through this — together. For more information visit coronavirus.gov.

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Dave Kramer is the sheriff of Boundary County.