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RCMP in Salmon Arm report local retailers being the subject of ridicule and abuse as they try to encourage mask wearing by customers.

Staff Sgt. Scott West says businesses have the responsibility to follow provincial health orders.

"Businesses have the responsibility due to the recent public health order to ask their patrons to wear face coverings or non-medical masks while on premises and to refuse service for non-compliance," West said in a press release Monday.

He didn't go into detail on any specific incidents in the city.

"Individuals have the right not to attend the business if they decide not to wear a protective mask to help prevent the spread COVID?19. We highly encourage everyone to respect provincial health orders for their safety and the safety of others."

West says retailers are merely following the rules to keep patrons and their staff safe.

"Please respect our local retailers as they try to remain open during these difficult times, and respect the rule of law. They are doing so to provide services to all of us and employ local people in a number of local industries amidst this pandemic.

"Please, be kind and respectful to one another during these trying times."