In response to growing concerns about the spread of COVID-19 (the coronavirus), the City of Benbrook is cancelling the upcoming Touch-a-Truck fundraiser event which was scheduled for March 23.

Citing concerns that public gatherings pose a greater risk of spreading COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses, city leaders believe that cancelling this event is a necessary action to help safeguard public health.

“At this time, health professionals advise social distancing,” Benbrook Mayor Jerry Dittrich said, “and we believe the decision to cancel this popular community event helps protect our citizens, especially those who are most vulnerable.”

The Mayor added, “As we get additional updates on this public health concern, we will assess the possibility of cancelling other future events. As always, our paramount concern is the health and safety of our citizens.”

City officials and first responders are monitoring the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for new information about COVID-19 daily, and are communicating regularly with local and state public health officials. Benbrook public safety teams are equipped to respond to a variety of public health issues. If necessary, they are prepared to respond quickly to a case of COVID-19 within our community and to minimize the risk of others becoming infected.

Tarrant County Public Health has prepared the following list of guidelines that can help reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the coronavirus and other respiratory illnesses:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• If you experience difficulty breathing, or persistent fever, call your primary care provider.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve.
• Frequently clean and disinfect touched objects and surfaces.

You can find extensive information about the coronavirus, including ways to reduce your risk of contracting the disease or spreading it to others, on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. The Tarrant County Public Health website has also posted information, and has a hotline you can call during regular business hours, 817-249-6299.