Guidance for Chapter Meetings and Events Regarding COVID-19

March 19, 2020 - A number of EAA chapters have contacted headquarters regarding guidance, options, and cautions regarding chapter meetings and events, including Young Eagles rallies, in conjunction with the coronavirus. Here is some guidance for those chapter leaders, as the situation has evolved greatly over the past week and will likely continue to evolve.

Communicate with your local public health officials (city, county, etc.). They will have the best overview on the local situation regarding public events. Many states have this week instituted limits on public gatherings. Abide by those state and federal declarations.

Most states have closed schools as a precaution and youth organizations have canceled events for the immediate future. Unless your state is allowing youth activities to take place, EAA recommends postponing those events at this time.

As far as chapter meetings, use common sense. Decide whether to hold the meeting after considering the current restrictions that may be in effect in your area, any risk factors for your chapter, etc.

Any EAA members or chapter officers who do not feel well should not participate in chapter events at this time. Emphasize that the safety and health of all is the primary priority in any decision that is made.

Options for sharing aviation information in place of a regular EAA chapter meeting could include such activities as a phone conference on current chapter activities, inviting chapter members to engage in online activities such as EAA webinars, or even a Facebook Live or other online webcast of a member showing off a current project.

Your local chapter has a better gauge on the situation in your community than we at EAA headquarters. We will continue to advise chapters of the latest information we have available.

General health and safety tips

All people should become familiar with the CDC's suggested health precautions, which include:

• Washing your hands for 20 seconds and using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – discard tissue immediately into a closed bin.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Bring personal hand sanitizer and wipes with you to all public places.
• Stay home if you have a fever or feel unwell, or if local health authorities have mandated any specific actions as part of a public health emergency.