Extra efforts to halt the spread of swine flu at Creekside

Since some schools and school activities have been cancelled in our area due to the risk of spreading swine flu, it is natural to be concerned about attending church. Therefore, we want you to be aware of the extra efforts we will be taking in the coming weeks to reduce the risk for those attending worship activities at Creekside.

First, the following steps have always been taken at Creekside to reduce the risk of infection: All toys, tables, children’s chairs, changing tables, playground, restrooms, and food areas are thoroughly cleaned with disinfectant prior to Sunday, Wednesday, and preschool activities.

Second, for as long as needed the following extra steps will be taken to help reduce the risk of infection:
• Each child and teen will be expected to wash their hands with an antibacterial solution as they enter and leave their classrooms.
• There will be additional disinfectant wipe downs during Sunday morning activities of restroom counters and door knobs, and of toys, tables, and chairs in the children’s classrooms.
• Bottles of antibacterial solution, cans of disinfectant spray, and toilet seat covers will be available in the restrooms.
• Communion will be served via individual packets. These packets will be available for pick up at the rear doors of the worship center. Following communion, plates will be passed to collect the used packets.
• Donut and pastry distribution will be suspended. Coffee and tea will still be available.

These temporary steps are consistent with the current recommendations for event organizers from the Dallas County Department of Health and Human Services:
1. Inform all participants of the situation that swine influenza is occurring in the United States and there is an increased risk for individuals who congregate in
large groups.
2. Post signage at entrance of the meeting indicating that individuals who are sick with symptoms of the flu SHOULD NOT ATTEND the event.
3. Ensure that facilities have proper sanitizing materials and clean all high contact surfaces regularly. Also, bathrooms should be monitored carefully for cleanliness and proper hand wash soap.

We will not post signs on the doors, but will trust that any members (or children of members) who have flu symptoms will refrain from attending church until symptoms are gone.

We regret any inconvenience these steps may cause, but know you will agree that we should take every precaution to protect the health of every member of our church family.

The Creekside staff & elders
4/30/09