WEST CARLETON – It’s Take-Out Wednesday in West Carleton – a new day to promote the food service industry across the country in the time of COVID-19.

As part of the state of emergency restaurants are not allowed to provide eat-in service and it has created a huge challenge for these small businesses to stay viable during the pandemic and accompanying regulations.

And that’s where Take-Out Wednesday came in. It’s a grass roots movement to encourage hungry residents to order take-out and support their local restaurants.

While take-out is encouraged, the Renfrew County District Health Unit (RCDHU) has some tips for those ordering take-out.

The RCDHU recommends you stay in your vehicle until your order is read.

“Assign one person to leave the car and retrieve your order,” the RCDHU released in a statement. “Avoid gatherings outdoors or letting children play around a mobile food truck.”

If lined up, keep a two-metre distance from others.

“Follow the signs, pylons or lines that indicate the required spacing,” the RCDHU said.

Immediately wash your hands for at least 20 seconds after receiving your order and before eating.

“Avoid touching your face after bringing your food home and before eating,” the RCDHU said. “Transfer the food from the container to your own dishware and recycle the packaging if possible or dispose of it. Carry alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you and use often if you plan to eat in your vehicle.”

Food must be taken away from the site to minimize social gatherings. Pick up your food and leave, allowing other customers such as a picnic table at a chip stand.

“The vendors must use single-use containers, napkins and cutlery, and provide single-use items such as ketchup, mustard or vinegar packs,” the RCDHU said. “Vendors prefer debit/credit card sales or e-transfers to avoid handling cash.”