The Arkansas Conference Disaster Response and Volunteers in Mission teams are continuing to work hard during this time of great uncertainty. In addition to continuing to respond to natural disasters throughout the Conference, the DR and VIM teams are taking extra steps to aid in the current COVID-19 pandemic.
In an effort to protect volunteers and those in need, we are currently limiting flood recovery work to high priority and following CDC guidelines for screenings. We are also working with and through AR VOAD to offer support for identified needs and requests for assistance.
Here are the guidelines that we have shared with our volunteers, based on CDC recommendations:
- WASH YOUR HANDS often and use antibacterial hand sanitizers to prevent the spread of viruses that transfer through skin to skin contact.
- KEEP your hands away from your face.
- CARRY TISSUES and cough or sneeze into tissues and immediately throw them away after they’re used. If you don’t have a tissue handy, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder, NOT into your hands.
- CLEAN and disinfect surfaces regularly.
- AVOID water fountains.
- Instead of physical contact greet others WITHOUT skin-to-skin contact. Wave or speak from at least 6 feet away. NO HUGGING and NO SHAKING HANDS. Skin-to-skin contact and airborne particles are the fastest way for viruses to spread.
- If you have potentially been exposed to the virus by traveling to an affected area, having visitors from an affected area, or by some other possible means consider SELF-QUARANTINE for 14 days.
- If a virus has spread in your community, LIMIT IN-PERSON CONTACT with others and avoid group settings.
- If someone becomes sick, SEPARATE them from others into an isolated room and take appropriate protective measures when tending to their needs.
- If you feel sick, STAY HOME. Staying away from face-to-face contact with others prevents the spread of viruses.
- Keep up with official news at – https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/novel-coronavirus, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html, and www.who.int
- Pray boldly for our church and community, our state and county. Pray for those vulnerable to more severe illness, for our healthcare workers, for those affected economically. Pray for the children regarding emotional impact.