Novel Coronavirus update

Commissioner's broadcast sent March 6, 2020

I know many of you continue to be concerned with the spread of novel coronavirus both in Canada and abroad, so I wanted to provide an update. As the situation evolves regarding the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), I would like to assure you that preparations are underway to ensure the continuity of operations and support for employees during this time.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is working with international partners, including the World Health Organization, provincial and territorial counterparts, and other federal departments and agencies, including the RCMP, to monitor and respond to the situation.

The Infoweb page is constantly being updated with the latest information so please check back frequently. You may also refer to Canada.ca/coronavirus for additional information and instructions or you can follow Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Theresa Tam, on Twitter at @CPHO_Canada.

As always, as a basic precaution, the following advice can help reduce the risk of infection or spreading infection to others:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
• When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with your arm or tissues to reduce the spread of germs, and dispose of any tissues you have used into the garbage as soon as possible and wash your hands afterwards
• Avoid visiting people in hospitals or long-term care centres if you are sick
• Check the travel health notices available on the Government of Canada's web site if you are travelling outside of Canada

You can also sign-up for Registration of Canadians Abroad to receive notifications.

RCMP frontline personnel should take additional precautions and use their Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when required in the presence of individuals who might be ill. Further information is available on the Infoweb.

I would also like to remind managers of the importance of maintaining an effective Business Continuity Plan (BCP). Employees should discuss their role in business continuity planning with their managers. The RCMP maintains national oversight of BCPs and Emergency Management Plans in response to a variety of scenarios, including outbreaks. The RCMP is engaged interdepartmentally in the development of Whole-of-Government plans. By taking the time to plan now, we increase our workforce resilience and ensure we know what to do and where to go in case of a disruption or emergency.

You may also want to speak with your family and update your home emergency plan to make sure you are prepared. The RCMP Employee and Family Preparedness Guide can be found on the Infoweb.

Let's all do our part to make sure we're prepared and stay healthy!

Brenda Lucki,
Commissioner

Date modified:

2024-06-04