Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce issued the following announcement on Mar. 16.
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is closely monitoring the changing developments of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and its impact on our region, our Investors and our Members. Following the example set by major national events, we are exploring virtual and rescheduling options for Partnership-hosted events from now through April 10, and will re-evaluate at that time. Events that can’t be rescheduled or held virtually will be canceled during this time frame.
We advise all employers to be ready to implement strategies to protect their organization and their employees from COVID-19 and have proactive plans to ensure business continuity. These steps are preemptive and will help to mitigate risk as you continue to do business.
Please feel free to consider the following advice and resources as you are preparing for the impact of COVID-19.
Planning and Preparedness
Review your emergency plans.
Discuss plans and contingencies, including the need to work remotely, flex hours and consider the possibility of temporary office/store closures.
Consider flexible policies for those that have absences due to their own illness or their family members.
Read through the disaster preparedness informational pages on The Partnership’s website.
Visit the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives crisis management resource center and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce resources and guidelines for business.
Review Iowa Department of Public Health workplace considerations.
Find information on how to access essential services through the United Way's 211 program.
Stay informed and look for information from reliable and trusted sources, including:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH)
Illness Prevention
While out and about in the Greater Des Moines (DSM) community, efforts to prevent the spread of disease will help keep our region safe. Here are a few ways you can help:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
If employees feel sick, encourage them to stay home.
If you haven't yet, please consider getting a flu shot.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 – 95% alcohol.
Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or a tissue, and then wash your hands immediately afterwards.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, computers, phones and desks.
Support Local
Now, more than ever, small businesses need your support. The Membership Directory is a great place to start.
If you are doing business with a local provider and your needs have changed, do your best to postpone the work and not cancel.
Additional Resources
Coronavirus and Influenza Prevention Strategies
Prepare Your Business for Possible COVID-19 Impact
https://www.dsmpartnership.com/covid-19
Original source can be found here.
Source: Waukee Area Chamber of Commerce