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Southgate Mall details coronavirus prevention efforts

Posted at 12:33 PM, Mar 13, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-13 14:34:52-04

MISSOULA — Southgate Mall officials are continuing to work on preventing the coronavirus.

According to news release, the mall has “a proactive plan in place to address the coronavirus” and are “actively monitoring the issue and carefully following safety guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with federal, state and local health authorities.

Based on advice from medical experts in infectious disease, mall officials are encouraging guests and employees who are sick to stay home and avoid close contact with others.



Preventative measures being taken at the Southgate Mall include:

  • We have increased the frequency and intensity of our already rigorous cleaning and sanitation practices, including periodically disinfecting areas most susceptible to the spread of germs. This includes play areas, public restrooms, rental strollers and wheelchairs, door handles, food court tables and other common area touch points.
  • We have increased housekeeping staffing, especially during peak traffic times.
  • We have alcohol-based hand sanitizer dispensers located in highly-trafficked areas and walkways for public use.
  • We are acquiring additional alcohol-based hand sanitizer dispensers and refills.
  • The Southgate Mall team is meeting with housekeeping managers on a daily basis and monitoring alcohol-based hand sanitizing product supply to help ensure all units are stocked.
  • All of our housekeeping teams have a Pandemic Emergency Preparation Plan in place (in both English and Spanish).
  • We are working closely with local health authorities to monitor the evolving situation and further respond as needed.

Looking after our guests and the community:

  • Based on advice from medical experts in infectious disease, guests and employees who are sick are encouraged to stay home and avoid close contact with others.
  • Washing your hands frequently and thoroughly helps to prevent infection. The CDC recommends washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and clean running water especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Don’t forget the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your fingernails, and dry your hands with a clean towel or let them air dry.

As it relates to events hosted at Southgate Mall:

  • For the safety of our guests, retailers, employees, and the community, we are following the lead of the CDC, our local officials, and local health authorities regarding the direction and best course of action for large gatherings in public places.
  • If we have to modify, cancel or postpone an event, we will communicate updates to our guests as quickly as possible.