Don't stand so close to me - these are the rules on karaoke singing during the pandemic

Don’t share microphones and don’t stand so close to me is the advice to karaoke fans during the coronavirus pandemic.
These are the rules if you can't go without karaoke during the pandemicThese are the rules if you can't go without karaoke during the pandemic
These are the rules if you can't go without karaoke during the pandemic

Although not formally banned under government regulations to combat the disease, the popular activity does pose a number potential risks.

But bosses in County Durham have updated wannabe wannabes on how to get stuck into singing without catching COVID-19.

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“There is no specific government COVID-19 guidance specifically around karaoke performances in public houses,” said Steve Helps, deputy chief fire officer at County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service.

“However, activities such as karaoke should be conducted in line with COVID secure guidance the government has issued because there is a high risk of transmission due to the sharing of microphones and the potential for increased volume.

“I would encourage those requiring further information to look at the government website, specifically around guidance on working safely during COVID.”

Helps was speaking at this morning’s (Friday, September 11) meeting of Durham County Council’s Health and Wellbeing Board, which was held by videolink and broadcast via YouTube.

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He added both the microphone and its stand, as well as any other props or equipment users touch, should be disinfected regularly, between each performance.

And limits on numbers in attendance and speaker volume should also be enforced to reduce the risk of transmission from people shouting in enclosed spaces.

‘Alternatives to live music events’ are also encouraged.

Amanda Healy, the county council’s director of public health, added as well as sticking to hygiene and social distancing rules, venues must also continue with contact tracing measures.

She said: “We’ve seen the hospitality and service sector start to open up and the collection and safe storage of contact details and I think we will see that as a legal requirement from Monday.

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“We’ve seen some excellent examples of businesses becoming as COVID secure as possible and giving an early heads up if any of their staff test positive.

“If you are contacted by NHS Test and Trace it means there has been a contact and there is a need to isolate and that is the key message to get across.”

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