America’s tourist playgrounds face a giant test as coronavirus cases increase in the south and west. Public officials and companies are scrambling to deliver guidelines and messages to visitors promoting health and safety, particularly for reopened venues like Las Vegas resorts and casinos.
The state’s highest single-day infection increases have happened within the past week, according to the Nevada Health Alliance. And neighboring states California and Arizona also show daily increases of coronavirus infection.
Vegas and Disney Take Action
Disneyland, which advertised a July 17 reopening, said yesterday California will not issue theme park reopening guidelines until after July 4. California reported 7,149 new COVID cases Wednesday, according to the state's Department of Public Health. This bypassed its previous record, making reopening a large public space problematic.
— Disney Parks News (@DisneyParksNews) June 25, 2020
During a June 24 press conference, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak announced a mask order requiring face coverings in indoor public places. Undoubtedly this will impact visitors and residents at Las Vegas casinos and resorts. When Vegas initially reopened June 4, visitors were encouraged but not mandated to mask up.
Sisolak also took to Twitter to deliver a condensed version of his press conference messaging. He provided not only a plea for the public and businesses to comply, but also links to detailed health guidance from the state, as well as a graphic containing a new slogan: No shirt. No shoes. No mask. No service.
That’s why, today, I signed a directive with a new requirement for Nevadans and visitors to wear a cover their nose and mouth with a mask or face covering, when in public space, whether publicly or privately owned. This directive is effective on Friday.
— Governor Sisolak (@GovSisolak) June 25, 2020
I don’t know why or when protecting our health and our neighbors’ lives became a political, partisan or even philosophical decision. For me it’s none of those. It’s a medical necessity, a human obligation and it’s good for business.
— Governor Sisolak (@GovSisolak) June 25, 2020
I encourage all businesses to prominently post signage to alert customers and help ensure this directive is followed. I know there are some businesses who have already required face coverings for customers and I thank you for this strong and helpful stance. pic.twitter.com/5AqBJllYvr
— Governor Sisolak (@GovSisolak) June 25, 2020
Individual Companies Follow Suit
Businesses also are taking action. MGM announced a company-wide mask ordinance for all public areas in resorts and casinos. MGM properties will provide masks to guests without them. Guests who refuse to wear a mask will be asked to leave.
"As part of our work to continually update and evolve our health and safety policies, we are now requiring masks for all guests and visitors inside public spaces," a press release said. "We hope that our guests will do their part to help the collective efforts to curtail the spread of the virus. Guests who do not wish to comply will be asked to leave the property."
MGM owns 55 percent of the resorts/casinos in Las Vegas. Caesars Entertainment also announced a mask mandate.
PR Takeaways: Business and Safety
By paying close attention to data, Nevada, MGM and Disneyland show they are pivoting successfully as they revise guidelines to augment protection for the public. In addition, their actions indicate health and safety is their top priority. Delivering that message should build public trust.
These entities also are striking a delicate balance between those who support the economy over safety, and vice versa. While not closing, they are demonstrating their commitment to health and safety. Yes, they'll keep the economy going, but also will provide a safe environment for employees and visitors. While not everyone will agree with the mask ordinance, it’s tough to disagree with this dual strategy, which allows for business and safety.
A Variety of Platforms
They also did a great job of appealing to different audiences. If you missed the press conference and tend to find more of your information online, you were able to get all you needed from Gov. Sisolak's Twitter thread. His announcement also provided links for more information and support. Disney delivered a statement not only on its site, but via social media–reaching numerous audiences.
As the virus rages, it will be interesting to see who on a governmental and economic level pivots on their initial reopening strategies, and how they will inform the public of these decisions.
Nicole Schuman is a reporter for PRNEWS. Follow her @buffalogal
This story is part of PRNEWS' ongoing coverage of the pandemic.