Shoppers are waiting in lines in the heat to enter stores due to the coronavirus

The city of Palm Springs is limiting how many customers are shopping in a store at one time. They issued an order reducing occupancy to 40% of the stores total occupancy. Other stores in the Coachella Valley are also doing the same. But with these coronavirus orders to ensure social distancing, the heat is also an issue as many are waiting in lines. Some stores have put up shade tents outside so customers are able to feel some relief while they wait.

Mike Santin, a Coachella Valley resident said, “I think it’s wonderful. They respect their clientele. Trying to make things as easy. It’s tough for everybody. But they are trying to make it as easy as they can for us so we can go ahead and buy their product.” He also added, “The idea of keeping us outside and standing in line is good because we are not over rushed or overcrowded in the store. They’ve got to protect us a little bit on the outside.”

Many stores around the valley like Trader Joe’s, Home Depot, and Best Buy are seen with tents outside to provide shade to customers waiting in line. This is especially important this week as temperatures soar above average in the triple digits.

One valley resident, Ben Nourse, said “I do have a hat in the car but this is even better.” He appreciated the shade while standing in line. Another valley resident, Emily Samarns, said, “Oh they’re wonderful. It’s awfully hot out here and hard to breathe.”

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Not everywhere had tents set up but also, not everywhere had a line. Santin said, “Right now we are out shopping. And it’s a lot nicer to stand outside under a tent than it is the boiling heat.”

Whether you’re standing in line outdoors in the shade or directly under the sun, staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do to prevent heat illness. Captain Fernando Herrera, the public information officer for Riverside County Fire Department and Cal Fire said, “Make sure that you take plenty of water with you. Number two, make sure that you take a hat. Some sort of head covering, whether it’s a ball cap or a large hat.” He also said an umbrella can help give you some shade. The time of day is also an important factor when shopping in the heat. Herrera said, “Shop early. Anytime before 10 o'clock in the morning because normally things start heating up after 10 o'clock.” If you can’t shop earlier, you can also shop during the late afternoon hours to avoid hours of peak heat. 

Kaiser recommends that those in the Coachella Valley who are elderly and have underlying health conditions, including individuals who are HIV positive, limit non-essential travel and avoid large public gatherings.

Health officials said anyone who thinks they might be experiencing symptoms of the virus and want to be seen at Eisenhower Health should call the hospital hotline first at 760-837-8988. Avoid the spread of this illness.
Residents with further questions can call 2-1-1 and 800–CDC –INFO (800 – 232 – 4636) with any questions.

Public health recommendations for all Riverside County residents during community spread:

Practice social distancing, which is remaining out of places where people meet or gather and avoid using public transportation, if possible.
Do not attend work, school or events when sick. Stay home.
Cough into your elbow or tissue.
Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer often.
Stay away from anyone who is sick.