Free masks to be available through Edmonton transit as chamber urges use in public

Editor’s note: This story originally stated masks were being made available to Edmontonians. Masks can be picked up by anyone at the mentioned city transit facilities. This story has been updated with the correct information.

On Wednesday, more packages of free face masks will be available for Edmonton transit riders at several transit centres and LRT stations as the city continues to attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The handout is part of Phase 2 the provincial government’s plan to provide millions of face masks to Albertans.

The news comes the same day the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce issued a news release urging Edmontonians to wear masks whenever out in public, saying even a single case of COVID-19 can have devastating impacts on a business.

“One of the best ways to protect jobs, protect workers and speed our economic recovery is to wear a mask,”  Janet Riopel, chamber president & CEO, said.

“Wearing a mask is a small but effective action that has the potential to have a huge impact on our economic future.”

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The City of Edmonton will be distributing 750,000 masks at the following locations:

• West Edmonton Mall Transit Centre
• Mill Woods Transit Centre
• Northgate Transit Centre
• Century Park Transit Centre
• Churchill LRT Station
• Clareview LRT Station
• Kingsway LRT Station

The masks will be available, upon request, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. while supplies last.

DATS operators and Transit Peace Officers will also be given packs for distribution upon request.

“We strongly recommend wearing a mask on transit,” Eddie Robar, branch manager of ETS, said.

“As Edmonton continues to reopen, wearing a mask on transit has become even more important to help keep our community safe. It’s simply the right thing to do, and we need everyone’s help.”

2:04 University of Alberta study finds growing public support for face masks

Mask users are asked to be sure to dispose of the used mask in a garbage bin. If one isn’t available, store it in a plastic bag until the mask can be disposed of properly.

On Monday, Premier Jason Kenney, Health Minister Tyler Shandro and chief medical officer of health Dr. Deena Hinshaw announced the second phase of the government’s mask plan.

“I am strongly recommending that all of us wear masks anytime we are out and can’t maintain a two-metre distance from others, especially in indoor spaces,” Hinshaw said.

“Wearing one is the right thing to do.”

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