"Be kind, be calm, and be safe."
Dr. Bonnie Henry's simple words have inspired British Columbians to stay positive and healthy during unprecedented times.
Today, TransLink released a commemorative and limited edition, adult Compass Card to remind customers to “Be Kind, Be Calm and Be Safe” as we return to transit.
In an Instagram post, the transportation agency writes that, "This card recognizes the extensive efforts that have been made by leaders and individuals in B.C. in response to the pandemic."
You can purchase the card at the Compass Customer Service Centre at Stadium-Chinatown Station, with a $6 refundable deposit, while supplies last. The centre is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
"If you'll be dropping by the centre, please practice physical distancing, and wear a mask while on transit, in line and inside the service centre. Let's keep each other safe," adds TransLink.
What TransLink is doing to make transit safer:
• Mandatory masks on transit vehicles.
• Increased cleaning and sanitizing.
• Deploying cleaning “pit crews” to disinfect SkyTrain cars at high traffic stations.
• Increasing bus and SeaBus disinfecting sprays to twice per week in addition to daily cleaning schedules.
• Daily cleaning and disinfecting schedules on SkyTrain and West Coast Express cars, as well as HandyDART vehicles.
• Limiting fare gate access at busy stations to help manage the number of customers on SkyTrain.
• Limiting the capacity on buses to approximately two thirds full.
• Installing two-metre spaced decals at some bus stops and station entranceways to help guide customers.
• Expanding the availability of hand sanitizer dispensers, including on the entire RapidBus fleet, at key exchanges, and at more SkyTrain stations.
• Monitoring passenger loads in order to deploy additional service at times and on routes where physical distancing is more difficult.
What customers can do to enhance their own personal safety and that of fellow passengers:
• Stay off the system if you are sick or have any symptoms.
• Wear a mask while onboard transit vehicles.
• Travel outside of peak times when possible.
The mandatory face mask protocol came into effect on Monday, August 24. TransLink said that this step is essential to ensuring customers have confidence riding transit as British Columbia’s economy continues to reopen and more people commute around the region.
The mandatory mask policy is part of TransLink’s Safe Operating Action Plan. This comprehensive plan increases the cleaning and sanitizing of transit vehicles and hubs, increases service levels, and creates space between customers where possible.
In June, the transportation agency launched a new campaign aimed at encouraging the use of face coverings and non-medical masks on Metro Vancouver’s transit system. As part of the ‘Wearing is Caring’ campaign, it is handing out more than 15,000 TransLink branded masks at key transit hubs.
