Coronavirus (aka COVID-19) has been all over the news lately. Areas hardest hit seem to be along both coastlines. Seattle, San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles all put major restrictions in place to limit exposure to others. In some areas, a total lockdown was put in place. Just last night, Mayor Sheehy proclaimed a state of emergency in Lake Havasu City. In response to COVID-19 concerns across the country, he urges people to limit gatherings to 10 people or less to keep with current CDC guidelines. While no Coronavirus cases have been officially reported in Lake Havasu City, he hopes that implementing a few guidelines and restrictions now keeps it from creeping into our town. Therefore, social distancing needs to become the norm for the next few weeks to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Social Distancing in Lake Havasu
What Does That Mean?
Since COVID-19 can be transmitted in the air from close contact, the CDC recommends keeping a six-foot distance between you and other people. President Trump recently held a press conference urging people to limit gatherings to 10 people or less. To help reduce possible exposure to COVID-19, Major Shehy asked that local bars, clubs, restaurants, libraries, and other places of public gathering take measures to keep this distance between customers.
Local Closures
Organizers already canceled or postponed several upcoming scheduled events through the end of March. The LHUSD closed schools through March 27th. The Aquatic Center shut down to the public for the foreseeable future. Expect any government offices to be closed to the public for now. Our local fire stations remain closed for public tours. However, they remain on service in case of emergency. Parks remains open. Feel free to visit and get some much needed fresh air. But, remember to keep that six-foot barrier between you and others. If it looks too crowded or you feel a bit under the weather, stay home. To stay up-to-date with all Coronavirus information, visit the City of Lake Havasu’s COVID-19 website.
Recommendations
If you can work from home, the mayor suggests that you do it. Limit runs to the grocery store for what you absolutely must get. And don’t overbuy in a panic. Remember, your neighbors need supplies, too. Officials around the country suggest keeping at least two weeks of food, water, household supplies, and medication on hand in case a “shelter in place” order comes to pass. Currently, the mayor has not put that order in place here. And, if we all remain calm and do our part to limit potential exposure, one will never be deemed necessary here.
So, if you practice social distancing, does that mean you must stay at home all the time? No. Let the kids play in your backyard. Take the dog for a nice long walk (as long as you keep your distance from others). Go for a drive. Literally thousands of acres of desert land surround our fair city. Take the camper out for some dry camping in the desert. Bring your desert toys with you. Make it an adventure. And practice good hygiene. Wash your hands regularly. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. While you may not experience the nastiest effects of COVID-19, you and/or your children could pass it on to someone that might not fare as well…like grandma or grandpa. Let’s all do our part to stay safe during this crazy time. And continue good safety practices after the curve has flattened.