The Schuylkill County Register of Wills and Clerk of the Orphans’ Court has taken extra precautions to combat the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

Theresa Santai-Gaffney, register of wills and clerk of the orphans’ court, has placed signs in the office requesting those visiting to use hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipes before going into the office. A sign is also on the computer that says “please use hand sanitizer and wipes after using computer.”

Santai-Gaffney said she took the action Oct. 2 “because of the increasing cases in the county.”

The Department of Health confirmed Wednesday 1,308 cases in Schuylkill County. A total of 60 people have died.

She said the extra measure taken aims to ensure the health of the public and staff.

“Our goal is to continue to see people to the best of our ability and to maintain a safe environment,” Santai-Gaffney said.

The office had been open with appointments since June. If someone doesn’t have an appointment, the office will “accommodate as needed.”

She commended County Administrator Gary Bender and the commissioners and human resources for their efforts. However, she told Commissioner Barron “Boots” Hetherington in an email she believed the county needed to “tighten our belts with the public.”

She also requested security to screen more thoroughly and call the office if visitors do not have an appointment.

When asked if visiting the courthouse offices should be available by appointment only, she said yes Thursday.

“It’s just a suggestion that might control the influx of people coming in,” Santai-Gaffney said.

Hetherington said in an emailed response the courthouse, county and Northeast Pennsylvania are seeing a “spike in daily reported cases.”

“We all need to hunker down and try harder,” he wrote, adding he appreciated her suggestions and concern.

Hetherington said he will speak to Bender and Commissioners George Halcovage Jr. and Gary Hess about her request.