People queuing for a taxi at the Weighbridge will be issued with a disposable mask before their journey to reinforce the new government guidance.

Marshal's at the Weighbridge taxi rank from 9:30pm on Friday and Saturday's (for the next fortnight) will be handing out masks for people to use whilst they wait in the taxi queue and when they get into a taxi.

The taxi rank has been chosen due to it's popular use after a night out in town, and for those who might forget to maintain physical distance.

The new mask policy will help protect taxi drivers who provide a service for the night-time economy.

Dr Ivan Muscat, Deputy Medical Officer of Health, explains how we can all take steps to protect ourselves and others from Covid-19 as we approach winter. For more information, visit: https://t.co/gkBaxcRGgL pic.twitter.com/EVnqJUG9mQ

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) October 28, 2020

Deputy Medical Officer of Heath Dr Ivan Muscat says islanders need to be more vigilant in protecting themselves and others.

 “This is the first weekend since we strengthened the recommendation to wear masks in enclosed public spaces where physical distancing and contact tracing is difficult. We are aware that the Halloween weekend can be busy for the night-time economy, and that people are likely to be more relaxed as the evening wears on and be less aware of maintaining physical distance.

“Wearing masks in these areas will minimise the risk of spreading COVID-19 in the community as they reduce the spread of the droplets emitted when breathing, talking, coughing and sneezing, which is the main way that this virus is transmitted.”

Taxi marshals will be adhering to strict hygiene measures by wearing gloves and face masks/visors.