Shelter in Place – A Message from Supervisor Gordon Mar

By Sunset Beacon on March 17, 2020 • ( Leave a comment )

Shelter In Place

Starting at midnight tonight, San Francisco will shelter in place.

Put simply: everyone should stay home as much as possible. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and child care facilities will stay open, as will essential government functions. Restaurants will be open for takeout or delivery only. All nonessential stores and services will be closed through April 7th.

This is the best and safest thing we can do right now to slow the spread of the coronavirus, prevent our healthcare system from being overwhelmed, and protect all our people.

And, this will be incredibly disruptive to our daily lives, our neighborhood, and our economy. As this situation evolves hour by hour, we are looking at every possible option we have to mitigate the impacts for workers, small businesses, renters, and residents.

San Francisco is united to protect the health and well being of the public. We will get through this, together.

DETAILS

The City issued a Public Health Order requiring people to stay home except for essential needs.

Vulnerable populations must stay home. Everyone should stay home except to get food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary health care, or go to an essential job.

It is OK to go outside for walks if you are not in a group.

This order is in effect until April 7.

It may be extended depending on recommendations from public health officials.

Read the full Public Health Order here.

FAQS

What can I do? What’s open?

These essential services will remain open:

City/County government services: Police stations, fire stations, hospitals/clinics and healthcare operations, jails, courts, garbage/sanitation, transportation (including Muni), utilities (water, power and gas), and certain city offices. Use online or mobile services whenever possible.
Gas stations
Pharmacies
Food: Grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores, take-out and delivery restaurants
Hardware stores/plumbers
Banks
Community benefit organizations on a case-by-case basis
Laundromats/laundry services

What can’t I do?

You cannot engage in group activities in person with others.

You cannot have dinner parties. You cannot invite friends over to your home to hang out.

You cannot go to bars or nightclubs.

You cannot go to a nail salon or get your hair cut by a stylist or barber.

You cannot go shopping for non-essential goods.

You cannot take unnecessary trips on public transport or in your car or motorbike.

Is this mandatory or is it just guidance?

It is mandatory. This Order is a legal Order issued under the authority of California law. You are required to comply, and it is a misdemeanor crime not to follow the order (although the intent is not for anyone to get into trouble).

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.

What if I need to get healthcare from my medical provider?

You can still get your health needs addressed. 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.

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.

Can I still get deliveries from online stores? Can I order from online stores?

Yes. The mail and other delivery services to your home can continue to function, as can food delivery services.

Yes, you can place more orders from online stores. Businesses that deliver goods or services directly to residences are essential businesses that may continue to operate.

Can I use ride share or on-demand service or a taxi?

Yes, but only for essential travel.

Do your best to take social distancing precautions: cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze, use hand sanitizer, and wash your hands before and after rides, etc.

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 6 feet, two to three steps away, including if you are on the bus or on 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.

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.