Stay safe and don’t let Covid-19 ruin Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas celebrations

Date: Wednesday, 03rd Nov 2021 | Category: Uncategorised

Sandwell residents celebrating Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas are being urged to stay safe during the Festival of Lights.

Diwali – which is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Buddhists – is on Thursday 4 November. Bandi Chhor Divas is also celebrated by Sikhs on the same day.

Sandwell Council has issued Covid-19 advice for people celebrating to help keep communities safe.

Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for adults, social care and health Councillor Suzanne Hartwell added: “It’s so important that people celebrate Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas safely and ensure that they’re not putting themselves and others at risk by spreading Covid-19.

“Covid-19 can be a fatal illness and can also cause nasty symptoms as well as long-term complications for some people – so ensure you stay safe and follow this guidance.”

Don’t attend events or visit family members if you have Covid-19 symptoms, if you have tested positive or if you have been told to self-isolate.
Do use a rapid test (LFT) before attending any events. If it is positive, you must self-isolate and book a PCR test.
Do take care not to light candles if you have used an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Wash your hands with soap and water before handling matches, candles or lighters.
If you’re having a gathering, ensure you are in a well-ventilated space. Keep the windows open.
If you are in a crowded indoor area it’s recommended you wear a mask or face covering.
Wash your hands regularly.
Maintain a distance from others if you can.
Overall, remember hands, face, space and fresh air.

Anyone can collect rapid home tests from pharmacies and by ordering online.

You can get up to 2 packs of 7 rapid tests from local pharmacies. To find a pharmacy near you go to https://maps.test-and-trace.nhs.uk

If you give the pharmacy a ‘collect code’ when you pick up the tests, it helps the NHS match your details to the tests. Get a collect code on GOV.UK

You can order rapid lateral flow home test kits on GOV.UK

Faith organisations in Sandwell can also collect LFT test kits from West Bromwich Town Hall Monday to Friday between 10 am – 4pm. Representatives from churches, mosques, temples and other places of worship can just walk-in between those times to collect their supply of test kits