Pub. 19 2020-2021 Issue 2

N E W J E R S E Y C O A L I T I O N O F A U T O M O T I V E R E T A I L E R S I S S U E 2 | 2 0 2 0 28 new jersey auto retailer Maintaining the Basics: Preventing Complacency as We Head Into Flu Season BY CHARLES RUSSO COVID continues to impact how we live and work, and it does not look like this will change anytime soon. The significant changes to everyday behavior to keep our families, friends, and colleagues healthy and safe, can be confusing and downright frustrating. However, dealers and employees must con- tinue to practice some basics to prevent the spread and a potential second wave that some medical experts are saying may happen as we head into flu season. Everyone can help by adhering to the ba- sics. Enforcement in this area will help prevent a “second wave” and will be key in avoiding future shutdown orders. Maintaining Social Distance ( at least 6 feet apart ) Social distancing is something that we have been advised to practice since the start of the pandemic. As businesses began to open and shelter in place orders were lifted, maintaining social distancing became more challenging. Dealers can help employees and customers adhere to social distance guidelines in a few ways. Some businesses have assigned a point person to greet customers at the door. This is an employee that will help customers with what to expect when visiting your dealership. During uncertain times customers and people, in general, are understandably scared, and this leads to apprehension about what they should or should not be doing. A little understanding and helpful communication will go a long way to help the cus- tomers that have the most concern. Washing Hands ( Frequently ) Correctly From the start, we have been advised by medical profession- als to wash our hands frequently. A visit to the CDC website ( https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html ) provides the best guidance along with other great tips on when and how to wash hands. Everyone should follow these simple steps every time: • Wet your hands with clean, running water, turn off the tap, and apply soap. • Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. • Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy birthday” song from beginning to end twice. • Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. • Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.