 Hello, I am Columbia-Russian Fire Chief Albert Dean Jenkins. As our citizen prepares to gradually return to normalcy, we want the citizens of Columbia and Richmond County to keep some important safety guidelines in mind. Even though businesses may be reopened, the dangers of COVID-19 still exist. We all must do what we can to prevent infection and stop the spread of this virus. If you own a restaurant, you can now begin offering limited indoor seating to customers. However, the total number of people in your business must not exceed half of its living capacity load. Tables in your restaurant must also be six to eight feet apart, and all occupants should practice social distancing. If you plan to dine inside a restaurant, consider calling ahead or making a reservation to reduce wait time. If there is a wait, avoid standing with groups inside or outside of the building. Instead, provide your name and wait in your car until your table is ready. For more information on Columbia going back to business, visit the city's website at www.columnsc.net. Let's all do our part to keep COVID-19 out. Thank you.