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Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council
Mayor Garcetti Issues Safer At Home Order
Posted on 03/19/20
“Safer At Home”: What You Need to Know
To further combat the spread of COVID-19, Mayor Eric Garcetti has issued a “Safer at Home” emergency order — ordering all residents of the City of Los Angeles to stay inside their residences, and immediately limit all movement outside of their homes beyond what is absolutely necessary to take care of essential needs.THE BOTTOM LINE
Residents of the City of Los Angeles are required to stay inside their homes and away from people outside their immediate family unless they are engaged in certain “essential activities.” On those few occasions when you are out of your home for necessary tasks, stay at least six feet away from others.
YOU CAN …
Go to the grocery store
Go to the pharmacy to pick up medications and other healthcare necessities
Go to medical appointments (check with your doctor or provider first)
Take a walk, ride your bike, and be in nature for exercise — just keep at least six feet between you and others in the community.
Walk your pets and take them to the veterinarian if necessary
Help someone to get necessary supplies
YOU SHOULD NOT …
Go to work unless you are providing essential services as defined by this Order
Visit friends and family if there is no urgent need
Maintain less than 6 feet of distance from others when you go out, as possible
Travel to or from a job outside the City, unless to perform essential activities
Travel to or from a vacation home outside the City
Visit loved ones in the hospital, nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or other residential care facility
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
1. What does this Order do?
This Order requires that most people stay home starting as soon as possible, but no later than 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2020, unless they are engaged in certain “essential activities” that are discussed more below. For most people, this means you and those you live with should remain at home to slow the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. You are allowed to leave your home for specified reasons to make sure you have the necessities of life such as getting food and medical supplies (discussed more below). You are also allowed to go outside to take care of pets, go on a walk, and just get outside, as long as you do not congregate in a group and maintain at least six feet of distance between you and other people. If you are sick you should self-isolate, including, to the extent you can, from others you live with (more on that below).
2. Why is this happening?
Today’s order is a critical intervention to reduce harm from the spread of the coronavirus in our community. Based on what we can predict, now is the time to do everything we can to prevent the situation from getting much worse in a matter of days or weeks. Every hour counts. We need and appreciate the cooperation of everyone who lives and works in the City of Los Angeles to act immediately.
While the news is understandably alarming, it is a necessary step that is intended to prevent a worsening situation. The patterns of the virus around the world, and in our own state, tell us that moving right now to the maximum social distancing and restrictions of people gathering is the best way to fight the virus and save lives.
If everyone works together, we should be able to adjust to the new rules over the next few weeks. We know that there will be a lot of questions and concerns at the beginning of this new regimen, and we ask everyone to bear in mind that this is a major change being taken to protect public health. Please be patient and kind to one another. Together, we will get through this, and our community’s health will be protected.
3. What does “safer at home” mean?
The term “safer at home” means to stay in your home and not leave unless necessary for one of the designated exceptions listed in the Order. In other words, everyone should stay home to slow the spread of the virus. You should limit your movements to essential outings. Those are discussed more below. Some reasons you would leave your home are to get food, to get a prescription, to see a doctor, to go to work if your work is essential as defined in this Order, to take your child(ren) to and from childcare that is authorized under this order, and to help people you care for get the things they need to live and be healthy and safe.
4. What is the difference between “safer at home” and “social distancing”?
Safer at home is a more rigorous form of social distancing. There are some differences. Safer at home means:
- Stay home (stay unexposed)
- Only go out for essential services
- Stay six feet or more away from others
- Don’t gather
5. When does the Order go into effect?
The Order goes into effect immediately after midnight, starting at 11:59 p.m., Thursday, March 19, 2020. Although this is soon, please do not panic. The Order allows for all essential activities such as shopping, taking care of children, and getting medications to continue.
6. How long does the Order last?
The Order is currently set until March 31, 2020. The duration can be either shortened or extended by the Mayor. We want to be sure the Order is in place for only as long as necessary, and the Mayor, in coordination with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, will be closely monitoring the situation every day in order to determine what adjustments make sense.
7. Can the Order be changed?
Yes. It was important to get this Order in place quickly given the spread of the virus in Southern California. However, it can and will likely be updated as conditions warrant. Please be sure to check the City website at https://corona-virus.la/ to regularly learn about updates and sign up for NotifyLA at https://emergency.lacity.org/notifyla. We will also be sure to work with the media to share important updates and information.
8. Where is the Order in effect?
This Order is in effect across the City of Los Angeles. Please note that the County of Los Angeles has issued a similar order.
9. Who issued the Order?
This Order was issued by the Mayor of Los Angeles. The Mayor has the authority under local and state law to issue emergency orders that are necessary to the protection of life and property.
10. Is this mandatory or is it just guidance?
Yes, it is mandatory. This Order is a legal Order issued under the authority of local and California law. You are required to comply, and it is a crime (misdemeanor) not to follow the Order (although the intent is not for anyone to get into trouble, and the expectation is that everyone will comply). Also, it is critical for everyone to follow the Order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect themselves, their loved ones, friends, neighbors and the whole community. All persons, businesses, and other entities are required to comply if they do not fall within the exemptions that are specified in the Order.
11. Why is this Order in place?
This Order is in place to address the ongoing spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 in the City of Los Angeles. At this point in the global pandemic, the virus has a foothold in our community. There is substantial community transmission of the virus, which is easily spread between people.
Because the virus spreads so easily, without dramatic intervention like this Order it would result in so many people needing medical attention in a hospital setting that our hospitals will be overwhelmed. We may not have enough beds or equipment to adequately care for the most seriously ill. Our health care works and other first responders are also at risk, and if they get sick there are fewer people to provide health care and first response services. For those reasons, it is critical that we now do everything in our power to slow down the spread of the virus. Doing so will “flatten the curve” to slow down the spread of the virus and help our health care system not be overwhelmed. If this succeeds, it means that there will be health care available for those who get sick with COVID-19 or who need emergency medical care for accidents, heart attacks, strokes, and other routine medical conditions.
12. Why now?
This Order is being issued now because the infection rates in the area have reached a level that means the situation is either critical or will be soon. The spread has to be stopped immediately. Now is the time to take the strongest action possible to avoid allowing the disease to reach the point in the next few weeks that may overwhelm the healthcare system. The sooner these extreme measures are taken, the more effective they are because of how the virus spreads.
13. Why is the Mayor issuing an order that shuts down so many businesses in my community?
The City of Los Angeles and the County of Los Angeles have been closely monitoring the rapidly accelerating situation with COVID-19 and it is clear that if we do not take very strong and aggressive action to slow down the spread of the disease, there will be substantial harm to members of our community. Additionally, our hospitals and particularly our intensive care units could be overwhelmed with patients. We are taking this action to save the lives of many higher-risk people in our community who are particularly susceptible to severe illness from COVID-19, and may die if we do not hact now to slow the spread and make sure our hospitals do not get overwhelmed with a flood of patients over a short period of time. The Order also protects everyone’s ability to seek emergency health care when needed.
14. Am I allowed to leave my home while this Order is in effect?
The intent of this Order is to ensure that people remain in their residences and minimize social interactions outside of their immediate family unit. However, you may leave your residence for reasons specified in the Order. These reasons include ensuring the health and safety of yourself and your family, engaging in outdoor activity that does not involve close contact with other people, obtaining services and supplies for yourself and your family, and to perform employment functions that are permissible under the Order.
15. What am I permitted to do?
The Order requires you to stay at home with those who live in your home (unless you are permitted to leave for certain reasons designated in the Order and described further below). You can and should practice social distancing to avoid others who either might have the virus or who you might give the virus if you are carrying it and don’t know. You can go on walks or otherwise be out in nature--just keep at least six feet between you and others in the community. You can hang out in your yard. You can go to the store for groceries or food supplies. You can take your pets to the vet. You can go to the pharmacy or go to medical appointments (check with your doctor or provider first). You can help someone else get these necessary supplies. If you work in health care or essential government functions (see below for more info), you can and should go to work unless you are required not to, or unless you are sick. For everyone who does not need to go out of the home to perform essential services, you should work from home.
16. What if I need to visit a health care provider?
For purposes of this Order, individuals may leave their residence to work for or obtain services at any health care provider, including hospitals, clinics, dentists, pharmacies, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, medical and scientific research facilities, laboratories, healthcare suppliers, home healthcare services providers, veterinary care providers, mental health providers, physical therapists and chiropractors, cannabis dispensaries with medicinal permits, or any related and/or ancillary healthcare services, manufacturers and suppliers. Health care providers do not include exercise gyms and similar facilities.
17. What can’t I do?
Group activities are a major concern. That is why performance venues, bars and nightclubs are closing.
18. Can I leave home to visit friends or family members if there is no urgent need?
No. For your safety as well as their safety, we need to help each other fight the spread of COVID-19 by staying at home.
19. What are essential activities?
These are essential activities that are remaining open:
- City/County government services:
- Police stations
- Fire stations
- Jails
- Courts
- Garbage/sanitation
- Public Transportation
- Utilities: Water, Power, Gas
- (Office uses like payroll, security, and administration)
- Public works construction, including construction of housing
- Airport operations
- Gas service stations, auto supply, auto repair, bicycle repair shops and related facilities.
- Health care providers, including:
- hospitals, clinics, dentists, pharmacies, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, medical and scientific research, laboratories, healthcare suppliers, home healthcare services providers, veterinary care providers, mental health providers, physical therapists and chiropractors, cannabis dispensaries, or any related and/or ancillary healthcare services, manufacturers and suppliers. Healthcare operations does not include fitness and exercise gyms and similar facilities
- Food
- Grocery stores, water retailers, certified farmers’ markets, farm and produce stands, supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouse stores, food banks, convenience stores, and other establishments engaged in the retail sale of canned food, dry goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, pet supply, fresh or frozen meats, fish, and poultry, any other household consumer products (such as construction supplies, cleaning and personal care products). This includes stores that sell groceries and sell other non-grocery products, and products necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences
- Take-out from restaurants, drive-thru restaurants, and delivery from restaurants
- Food cultivation, including farming, livestock, and fishing
- Hardware stores and nurseries
- Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, custodial/janitorial workers, handyman services, funeral home workers and morticians, moving services, HVAC installers, carpenters, landscapers, gardeners, property managers, private security personnel and other service providers who provide services to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation to properties and other essential activities
- Banks
- Organizations and businesses that provide food, shelter, and social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals, (including gang prevention and intervention and domestic violence agencies).
- Laundromats/laundry service
- Newspapers, magazines, television, radio, podcasts and other media services
- Educational institutions, including public and private K-12 schools, colleges, and universities -- for purposes of facilitating distance learning or performing essential functions provided that social distancing of six-feet per person is maintained to the greatest extent possible
20. Can I still get deliveries from online stores?
Yes. The mail and other delivery services to your home can continue to function, as can food delivery services.
21. Can I still order the things I need online and have them delivered to my residence?
Yes. The Order identifies businesses that deliver goods or services directly to residences as “essential businesses” that may continue to operate.
22. Can I use ride share/on demand service or a taxi?
Yes, but only for essential travel. Being in close quarters in a vehicle that has been shared with many others should be avoided if possible. However, there may be circumstances when this mode of transportation is needed. In that instance do you beset to take social distracting precautions, being sure to cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze, use hand sanitizer or wash your hands before and after rides, etc. Airlines, taxis, and other private transportation providers, like Uber and Lyft, providing transportation services necessary for Essential Activities and other purposes are expressly authorized in this Order.
23. Can I take public transport (bus, subway, train)?
Yes, but only for essential travel. Public transit will continue to operate on a limited basis. When using public transport, you should maintain at least six feet, which is appropriately two to three steps away, including if you are on the bus or trains. This is why it’s important to only take public transportation for essential activities--you want to help everyone be able to practice social distancing.
24. Can I get my prescriptions or other health care needs? Can I leave home to go to the pharmacy to get my prescription filled?
Yes. Drug stores and other medical supply stores are allowed to operate. When possible you should have the drug store deliver your prescription medicine to your home.
25. How will I get food and medicines I need if I must stay in my home?
The Order specifically allows people to leave their home to buy food, purchase medicine, and purchase other necessary items. It also directs businesses selling those items to remain open, and allows employees of those businesses to keep working and to ensure those businesses are operating.
26. What if I need to get healthcare from my medical provider?
You can still get your health needs addressed. You should contact your health care provider to see if they are providing regular services. Some services, especially elective procedures may be postponed or canceled. If you are feeling sick, please first call your doctor, a nurse hotline, or an urgent care center. Do not go to the emergency room of a hospital unless you have an actual emergency.
27. Can I still seek non-essential medical care like eye exams, teeth cleaning, elective procedures, etc.?
A separate order from the County Health Officer will require that routine medical appointments and elective surgery be cancelled or rescheduled. To the extent possible, all health care visits that are not cancelled or rescheduled should be done remotely.
28. Should I stock up on food, necessities like toilet paper, and on medicines?
No. You will continue to be able to purchase these items whenever you need them, as stores selling necessary items like grocery stores, pharmacies, and hardware stores will remain open. Please continue to buy normal quantities of these items on the same schedule you normally do. This will ensure that there is enough for everyone.
29. What should I do if I’m sick? If I or a family member need immediate medical attention, can I leave home to go to the doctor or hospital?
If you are feeling sick, please first call your doctor, a nurse hotline, or an urgent care center before going to the hospital. Do not go to the emergency room of a hospital unless you are having an actual emergency. You can and should seek medical advice if you or a family member is sick. If it is not an emergency, please contact your primary care provider to determine next steps. You can check online resources to help you assess symptoms if you are worried about whether you or a loved one has the COVID-19 virus. You should check https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html for more information. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you are experiencing a medical emergency.
30. Can I leave home to care for my elderly parents or friends who require assistance to care for themselves? Or a friend or family member who has disabilities?
Yes. Be sure that you protect them and you by following social distancing guidelines such as washing hands before and after, using hand sanitizer, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance when possible, and coughing or sneezing into a tissue.
31. What should I do if I’m sick and need to go to the hospital or a medical provider? How can I protect others?
If possible, walk or drive yourself to the hospital or medical provider. If someone else in your home is sick and can drop you all, that is another good option. You want to try to avoid exposing others to any germs you have, especially if you are seriously ill. If you have Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) like a surgical mask or N-95 mask, you can wear that to prevent exposing others. If you don’t have that, you could use a temporary method such as wrapping a clean scarf around your mouth and nose to try to reduce droplets when you cough and sneeze. Although this is not an approved method, it is something you can do to avoid exposing others. Just do the best you can.
32. Can I visit loved ones in the hospital, nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or other residential care facility?
Generally no. There are limited exceptions, such as if you are going to the hospital with a minor who is under 18 years old or someone who is developmentally disabled and needs assistance. For most other situations, the Order prohibits non-necessary visitation to these kinds of facilities. If you need to know more, please contact the facility you want to visit by phone before you leave. This is difficult, but it is necessary in order to protect hospital staff and other patients.
33. What factors put me more at risk for bad outcomes from the COVID-19 virus?
Anyone of the age of 60 is at an additional risk, with the risk becoming higher the older you are above that age.
Also, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has listed the following conditions as being additional risk factors for serious outcomes from the COVID-19 virus:
- Blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell disease or on blood thinners).
- Chronic kidney disease as defined by the person’s doctor. This includes a patient who has been told to avoid or reduce the dose of medications because of kidney disease, or is under treatment for kidney disease, including receiving dialysis.
- Chronic liver disease as defined by the person’s doctor (e.g., cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis). This includes when the person has been told to avoid or reduce the dose of medications because of liver disease or is under treatment for liver disease.
- Compromised immune system (immunosuppression) (e.g., seeing a doctor for cancer and treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation, received an organ or bone marrow transplant, taking high doses of corticosteroids or other immunosuppressant medications, or has HIV or AIDS).
- Current pregnancy or recent pregnancy in the last two weeks.
- Endocrine disorders (e.g., diabetes mellitus).
- Metabolic disorders (such as inherited metabolic disorders and mitochondrial disorders).
- Heart disease (such as congenital heart disease, congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease).
- Lung disease including asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (chronic bronchitis or emphysema) or other chronic conditions associated with impaired lung function or that requires home oxygen.
- Neurological and neurologic and neurodevelopmental conditions, including disorders of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerve, and muscle such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy (seizure disorder), stroke, intellectual disability, moderate to severe developmental delay, muscular dystrophy, or spinal cord injury.
34. What if I am diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus or have been exposed to someone who was?
If you have been diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus, you will need to be isolated to protect those around you. If you were exposed to someone who was diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus, you should quarantine for the recommended time in order to not expose others if you happen to have the virus yourself. Contact your healthcare provider if you have additional questions, or go to the City’s website at https://corona-virus.la/ or the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s website at http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/.
35. What if I can’t get out of the home? How can I get supplies and food?
Please contact friends, family, or others you know who can provide support. They are permitted to pick up the supplies you need.
36. Is the local government shutting down?
No, essential governmental functions will continue, including first responders, emergency management personnel, emergency dispatchers, and law enforcement. Other government functions or offices may be subject to reduced schedules or may be closed as part of the effort to fight the spread of COVID-19.
37. I work for the government--Can I continue to go to work?
Government employees can continue to go to work if they are designated as essential employees by their employer. Other government entities are responsible for determining which of its workers are essential workers. This Order does not apply to the employees of the City of Los Angeles. City of Los Angeles employees shall follow any current or future directives issued by the Mayor.
38. What if I work for a childcare facility?
Please review the Order for more details about requirements and restrictions.
39. Does the Order allow me to have my children in childcare? Will my daycare be shutdown?
Childcare facilities may only operate if they comply with the conditions of this Order as they related to child care. Among these conditions, children must be cared for in groups of 12 or fewer, groups of children may not mix with each other, and providers may not circulate between groups.
40. Are nannies permitted to be used? What about other in-home child care?
In some instances. If the nanny provides medical/health care for the child, then yes. If the nanny lives with you, then yes. Otherwise, nannies not necessary for medical care are not permitted. Also, parents required to work away from home for essential activities may need in-home child care, which is permitted.
41. I work for a large technology company that provides products and services that the public needs to access critical services. Is my company being shut down?
No. However, most employees will need to work from home. Anyone who must work onsite to maintain essential infrastructure for the community or to maintain minimum necessary operations as described in the Order may continue to work in the workplace so long as they are maintaining social distancing.
42. Will this order prevent companies working on vaccines and testing for COVID-19 from continuing to do that work?
No. The Order specifically excludes all healthcare related functions, including not just hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers, but also all of the companies that supply them with goods and services.
43. Are non-profit organizations allowed to continue operating?
If they provide essential services as described in the order, then yes they can and should continue providing those services. This would include non-profit operating food pantries, providing housing for homeless residents, and many other critical services.
44. Am I allowed to leave the areas covered by this Order to travel to/from a job outside the City of Los Angeles? Does the Order allow me to leave the City?
The Order allows all travel out of the City only to perform essential activities. Otherwise, the answer is “no” because the travel puts you and others in the community at risk.
45. Am I allowed to leave the areas covered by this Order to travel to/from a vacation home outside the City?
No, except to the extent that you leave the City and do not travel back or are leaving for a permitted purpose. That kind of travel runs the risk of spreading the virus around the state or elsewhere, and that puts others at risk. Stay put and don’t risk exposing yourself or others.
46. I am currently on vacation outside the City--Does the Order allow me to return home?
Yes. You should maintain social distancing on your way home, and then you will be subject to the limitations in this Order. If you prefer to stay safer at home at your current location, you are encouraged to follow this Order while outside the City of Los Angeles in order to protect yourself and others.
47. What happens if I leave the City to go on a planned vacation?
The Order requires that you shelter in your place of residence. If you leave the area for vacation or for another reason that is not an essential purpose exempt under the Order, then you may not be permitted to return to your residence. Traveling runs the risk of spreading the virus to other areas and exposing new populations. Do not travel. As explained above, if you live outside of the City of Los Angeles, you are allowed to travel to and from work if performing essential activities, or if you need to travel to the City of Los Angeles, for another essential service like medical appointment.
48. I’m visiting and staying in a hotel, with family/friends, or in a short term rental. What should I do? Can I go home?
This Order covers you, and you should do your best to avoid spreading the risk of the virus. If you have a car and can return home via travel, you may do so if you follow social distancing protocols. If you have a flight or other travel, you should check first with the carrier to see if they are still operating and what protocols they recommend. You are strongly encouraged to practing staying safer at home when you arrive at your destination to avoid infecting anyone else in your home community.
If you need to stay longer, coordinate with your accommodations as best you can.
49. Can I leave home to exercise?
If you will be both outdoors and not in close contact with people, yes. Otherwise, no, because fitness and exercise gyms and similar facilities are closed.
50. What sports can I play?
You can engage in certain activities outdoors, but you should not play sports indoors or play team sports.
Sports that are permitted (as long as you maintain at least six feet from anyone else and don’t share equipment):
- Yoga on your own (no sharing blocks or mats)
- Running alone or with others with distance
- Riding your bike (alone/with distance)
- Walking (alone/with distance)
- Stretching
- Swimming in the ocean or in your own pool/hot tub
- Shooting baskets by yourself, or hitting a tennis ball against a backboard.
Not permitted:
- Any team sports where there is any contact or where a ball or other equipment is touched by multiple people (soccer, baseball, basketball, Frisbee, etc.)
- Swimming in a communal pool
51. I become anxious when cooped up in my house. Am I allowed to go to the park or on a hike? Can I travel to a park or open space?
Yes. Spending time outside improves mood and wellbeing, and is particularly beneficial to children. You can go for walks, go to the park, and engage in other similar activities, but should maintain social distance (i.e., be more than 6 feet away from persons who are not part of your household) when on walks and in parks to avoid spread of virus.
52. How will I entertain my kids? Can we go to the playground or arrange playdates?
Do your best to entertain your children with games, reading, puzzles, and TV/videos at home. Engage them in education using online tools. However, you should not take them to the playground or arrange playdates. Children are not able to maintain social distance, and even adults are prohibited from socializing with friends in this manner. It is essential that we stop the spread of the virus by not having in-person social interactions.
53. Who counts as a family member?
A family member includes anyone you live with, anyone who is a legal relative of yours, or anyone you treat as a family member.
54. What do I do about my loved one who needs care from me?
You are permitted to provide care or to help with getting supplies for loved ones. But don’t provide care or pick up supplies if you are sick and someone else can do it. If you are sick, please try to self-isolate or take other steps not to expose anyone else to your illness.
55. Can I go to the store (grocery store, market, corner store, food bank, etc.) to buy food and other things?
Yes, you can go to the store to buy food for yourself, for those in your home, and for anyone else that needs help. This also includes medical supplies at a pharmacy and essential maintenance supplies at a hardware store.
56. Can grocery stores, farmers markets, and other food retailers remain open?
Yes. Grocery stores, certified farmers’ markets, fam and produce stands, supermarkets, food banks, convenience stores, and similar food retail establishments are encouraged to remain open to provide food and pet supplies to the public. When visiting these establishments, please help retailers maintain at least six feet minimum distance between patrons, including by providing ample space while shopping and waiting in line.
57. If my child’s school is providing food or meals, can I leave home to go to the school to pick up the food or meals?
Yes.
58. Can big box stores that sell groceries and essentials stay open?
Yes.
59. Can warehouses and distribution centers that supply businesses that ship and deliver stay open?
Yes,
60. Can I go to the bank?
Yes, you can go to the bank. You should minimize unnecessary trips.
61. Can I go out to do laundry or have my laundry done?
Yes.
62. What are the social distancing guidelines I still need to follow?
The best way to reduce their risk of getting sick, as with seasonal colds or the flu, still applies to prevent COVID-19:
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Cover your cough or sneeze.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Avoid groups (stay at least six feet away from others).
- Reduce the time you are around others outside the home, even when at least six feet away.
63. What if I’m in a line and there isn’t six feet between me and others?
You should still try to maintain a least six feet between you and others. When that isn’t possible for short periods, do your best to keep the duration short. Be sure when you are in line that you don’t sneeze or cough onto people. If needed, cough or sneeze into your shirt or into an elbow with clothing on.
64. Can I go to a bar/nightclub/theater?
No. Entertainment venues like these are not permitted to be open.
65. Can I go to a restaurant, cafe, coffee or tea shop, ice cream shop, or other foodservice location?
Yes, but only to pick up food. You cannot dine-in or eat or drink at the facility. Patrons will not be permitted to dine or congregate in restaurants, bars, and similar establishments.
66. Is my favorite restaurant, cafe, coffee or tea shop, ice cream shop, or other foodservice location open?
Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food to the public are encouraged to stay open, but only to provide delivery and carry out. Patrons will not be permitted to dine or congregate in restaurants, bars, and similar establishments.
67. How can I access free or reduced price meals for myself or my family?
Schools, soup kitchens, food banks, and other entities that provide free or reduced priced food goods or meals to students or other members of the public are encouraged to continue providing these services. However, food provided by these establishments to the public may not be eaten on the premises but must instead be delivered or taken away for consumption.
68. Can I walk my dog/pet?
Yes. Be sure that you distance yourself at least six feet from other pets and owners.
69. Can I go to a vet or pet hospital if my pet is sick?
Yes. Please call first to determine if there are any restrictions in place.
70. What if my plumbing gets stopped up or there is another problem with necessary equipment at my home? How will I access those sorts of services?
Call your plumber or building manager. This Order allows service providers like plumbers, electricians, and exterminators to keep working and providing their services to the public. To obtain supplies for a DIY solution, you can also visit a hardware store, which are allowed to stay open under this Order.
71. What if I want to go to work and I’m not sick?
Unless your work includes an essential function, you cannot go to work. You may have the virus and not know it, or you might get it and risk infecting those you live with.
72. What happens if I don’t comply with this Order?
This is a legally enforceable order issued under California and local law. It is a crime to violate this Order, and you may be punished by a fine or imprisonment for doing so.Download SAFER_AT_HOME_ORDER2020.03.19.pdf
Download MR MESSAGE 3-19-20.pdf
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