SaskTel waives data overages during COVID-19 pandemic

SaskTel customers who may be working from home don’t have to worry about data overages for the rest of the month.

This is due to the COVID-19 pandemic and an increasing number of people working remotely.

Starting Tuesday, all domestic overage charges are waived on postpaid and prepaid wireless plans. All SaskTel internet plans are already unlimited.

“We realize that some customers may have increased needs to wok from home and remotely,” said SaskTel spokesperson Michelle Englot in an email. “While no one can be certain of the extent and effects of an event or pandemic, we feel we are in a strong position for preparedness.”

Additionally, SaskTel is providing additional news and entertainment channels to all maxTV customers. All of the changes will be automatically implemented, and require no action on the customer’s part.

As of Monday morning, there is one confirmed and five presumptive cases of COVID-19 in the province.

The Saskatchewan government announced schools will be closed indefinitely as of March 20. Many other public facilities, including libraries and recreation facilities, are being closed due to the pandemic.

1:02 How to properly practise self-isolation

Confused about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:

Health officials say the risk is low for Canadians but warn this could change quickly. They caution against all international travel. Returning travellers are asked to self-isolate for 14 days in case they develop symptoms and to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing — very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease. If you develop symptoms, contact public health authorities.

To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. And if you get sick, stay at home.

For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.