Venues investing in heaters to survive COVID winter chill

NEW YORK－Pummeled by the COVID-19 pandemic and enduring stricter and lengthier restrictions than their counterparts in other parts of the state, most of New York City's restaurants and bars are determined to keep trading by preparing heaters for outdoor dining in the winter, The New York Times reported on Wednesday.

"Many are buying propane and electric heaters to keep outdoor diners warm. Others are upgrading their indoor ventilation systems and doubling down on delivery," said the paper.

As of Nov 2, about 400 restaurants had filed paperwork with the Fire Department of New York to use outdoor propane heaters, which were previously banned in New York City, it said.