LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still recommended people wear masks in public due to COVID-19, it’s not required at any of the resort properties in Las Vegas. The only people who must wear them are employees.
So, are guests following the guidance? While some guests are wearing face coverings as they celebrate Las Vegas’ historic reopening, many people are not.
The entertainment capital of the world is celebrating today in its own signature style, and there’s a lot of excitement.
“We’re back! I’m so excited!” exclaimed resident Lauren Harwell.
But even amid the flashy fanfare, the focus is on face coverings, or a lack thereof.
Those who are wearing them said they are important.
“It’s just to keep everyone safe, keep each other safe, keep our masks on, and you know, we don’t want to go into another resurgence,” said Harwell. “So as quickly as we can get back to normal would be awesome.”
Patricia Lanter, who is visiting from California, noted the resorts are “making efforts to make it as safe as possible.”
Other guests said they feel comfortable without the coverings, especially because of the new sanitization measures in place.
“I wear masks wherever I’m required to. I would never argue it. But I need to breathe,” said Lanter. “I’d wear the mask for the smoke.”
Many properties are doing what they can to combat COVID-19.
“All of our employees will be wearing masks,” said Sean McBurney, general manager of Caesars Palace. “We’re strongly encouraging all of our guests to wear masks and make that available to any guest who would like one.”
Even bartenders and go-go dancers downtown are wearing masks and face shields. The goal is to keep everyone protected as the celebrations start again.
“This is an awesome time for us as Las Vegas,” said Harwell.