Advice for safe shopping in Highland High Streets this Christmas
Business Minister Jamie Hepburn and National Clinical Director Jason Leitch have shared tips for safe Christmas shopping as many high streets prepare to welcome back customers this weekend.
Some 11 local authority areas have moved from level 4 to level 3 restrictions, with non-essential retail businesses able to re-open from 6am and it is likely that some will travel to the Highlands' tier one shopping areas at the same time.
Mr Hepburn said: “We know that lots of people want to support local businesses this Christmas, especially as shops and hospitality businesses in many areas open their doors again.
“Not only will they be helping their high street at the end of a difficult year - they’ll also be reducing unnecessary travel which can spread coronavirus between communities.
“The virus is the last gift anyone wants to receive this Christmas so I am encouraging everyone to follow our advice for safe shopping and travel to reduce the risk of infection.
“Plan shopping trips to avoid peak hours and don’t leave it to the last minute. Keep away from crowded areas where physical distancing is difficult and show consideration for others by shopping in as small a group as possible, going alone if you can.
“Consider ordering online or by phone and collecting in store instead to reduce the amount of time you have to spend in the shops.
“Bear in mind that shopping may take longer than you are used to and retail staff will be doing a difficult job balancing safety with serving shoppers as fast as possible.
“I am also urging all retailers to continue to act responsibly and to keep following the guidance to keep numbers in shops to safe levels and keep staff and customers safe.
"They should also make sure that employees are not required to work unreasonable or excessive hours and that health and safety and hygiene requirements continue to be observed.
“Always aim to be polite and try to be patient. The restrictions are difficult for everybody and we need to work together to keep each other safe. Abusive behaviour is never acceptable and at its worst it could constitute criminality.”
Professor Leitch said: “There are simple steps that we can all take to reduce our risk when shopping such as using hand sanitiser and avoiding touching surfaces or goods unnecessarily.
“Pay attention to and follow all instructions and advice provided by businesses and their staff – this is for your safety and that of other customers and staff. If you do not think you can physically distance from others within a shop because it is busy, try to come back another time instead.
“Double check your area’s travel restrictions and think carefully about the need to travel. Do you have to take public transport or could you go on foot or by bike?
“As always, remember FACTS and make sure to follow all safety measures including wearing face coverings, maintaining two metre distance from others and practice good hand hygiene.”
