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No more self serve drinks at some area stations

Measure made to prevent spread of COVID-19

March 23, 2020 at 6:47 pm CDT

Out of order signs are posted on fountain pop and coffee machines at the Shell gas station at 2402 E. Lincoln Highway in Sterling after an order from the health department. (Michael Krabbenhoeft)

By Jeff Helfrich

Area Shell gas stations are no longer giving customers the option to self serve fountain drinks and coffee in an attempt to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The policy was confirmed by Angela Langley, a cashier at the Rock Falls Shell station.

The self serve policy is not the only change the chain has made in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stations are also closing earlier than usual (8 p.m.) and are cleaning "everything all the time," Langley said. Employees are being told to wear gloves as well.

Outside gas pumps are also being cleaned to prevent COVID-19 spread.