Alberta gov’t to hand out non-medical masks at 600 fast-food drive-thrus

Health Minister Tyler Shandro said in a press conference that these masks, which have three layers and ear loops, will be available at around 600 drive-thrus in Alberta and that each Albertan will be given four masks. (File photo: @visuals/Unsplash)

When you order a meal at a fast-food drive-thru in Alberta, you are not just getting what exactly you have ordered because along with it is a freebie.

The Alberta government announced on Friday, May 29, that they will be distributing 20 million non-medical masks to Albertans for free at A&W, McDonald’s, and Tim Hortons drive-thrus across the province in early June. This is to help provide an extra layer of protection to everybody amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Health Minister Tyler Shandro said in a press conference that these masks, which have three layers and earloops, will be available at around 600 drive-thrus in Alberta and that each Albertan will be given four masks.

“Mask use is not mandatory but we would like Albertans to have the option of wearing a mask if they choose,” he said.

Shandro clarified that the masks are not considered personal protective equipment (PPE) and are not included in the supply of protective gear that the government is providing to first responders to health-care workers.

Meanwhile, smaller municipalities, Indigenous communities, Metis settlements, and other areas in the province that do not have access to drive-thru restaurants won’t have nothing to worry about because the Alberta government is “working out alternatives” for them.

“Even if you don’t have an A&W, a McDonald’s or a Tim Hortons in your community you will be able to get your four masks,” he assured.

Apart from these locations, Shandro said they are also planning to distribute masks in high-risk areas such as transit and places of worship.

The official, however, said the supply from the government is limited so he advised Albertans to have their own supply of non-medical masks from local retailers or they can make their own mask at home.

In a news release from the province, the three restaurant partners said they are glad to be part of the masks distribution plan.

“Our restaurants across the province have been quick to step up and help organize the distribution of masks, and are looking forward to welcoming Albertans at our drive-thrus,” A&W president and chief executive officer Susan Senecal said.

Since it is their commitment to assist people during the pandemic, McDonald’s Canada restaurant support officer and COVID Response lead Jeff Kroll said they welcome the opportunity to help the government and “do the right thing for Albertans when they need us most.”

Tim Hortons chief operating officer Mike Hancock, for his part, shared they are “proud to have been asked to participate in this important program and do our part to help Alberta move forward on its relaunch strategy.”