Top tips for families to help stay safe over the Christmas break

Wiltshire families are being reminded to stay safe over the Christmas holidays as school and colleges close for the festive break.

As COVID plays a key factor in everyone's plans, Wiltshire Council is reminding parents and carers of the things that people can do to keep safe and ready for the new year in 2022.

Key points are:

• Get your jab! If you're 12 and over you are now eligible for vaccines and details of venues where you can get the vaccine are on the NHS website (opens new window). You're eligible for your booster if you had your second jab more than three months ago
• Wear a face covering in any crowded indoor setting
• Take a Lateral Flow Device (LFD) test regularly - particularly if you are meeting with family or friends or attending an event. You can obtain LFD tests from our community collection sites, pharmacies and online
• If you display COVID-19 symptoms go and get a PCR test
• Meet people outdoors where possible
• If meeting indoors let fresh air in regularly.

In the new year, secondary school pupils will be taking LFD tests on their school sites with schools providing details to families directly of how this will be rolled out.  

Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health for Wiltshire, said: We are all looking forward to the Christmas season and for schools it's been an extremely busy time, so I hope our entire school communities can take a well-earned rest and feel refreshed for the new term in 2022.

I know you've heard these messages before but it is worth reminding everyone - please take these simple steps to keep you and your loved ones safe. We all know what to do - we just all need to put these into action so we are giving ourselves and our loved ones the best chance to enjoy Christmas and the New Year.