Gov. Jared Polis this week offered rough guidelines of what his “safer-at-home” phase means for Colorado residents and businesses.
The statewide stay-at-home order will lift Sunday, and some businesses, such as salons, tattoo parlors, dog grooming and personal training, will be allowed to resume service.
The goal of the safer-at-home phase, Polis said, is to maintain 60% to 65% physical distancing. The guidelines are just that, guidelines. Local governments and health departments have the ability to enact more lenient or stringent guidelines than those Polis recommends based on their localized situations and responses to the coronavirus outbreak.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment on Thursday issued an order requiring workers in critical businesses and critical government functions to wear nonmedical masks and gloves while at work to protect the health and welfare of the public.
As of Thursday, San Juan Basin Public Health said it was awaiting further guidance from the governor’s office before saying what recommendations it will make for Archuleta and La Plata counties.
Here are the governor’s guidelines as of Wednesday:
Vulnerable populations, including older adults, must stay home unless absolutely necessary. No group gatherings of more than 10 people. Critical businesses will remain open with strict precautions (social distancing, masks for all employees, more frequent cleanings, etc.)Retail businesses may open for curbside delivery and phased-in public opening with strict precautions.Nightclubs, gyms and spas will remain closed.Elective medical and dental procedures can begin, but with strict precautions to ensure adequate personal protective equipment and the ability to meet critical care needs. Personal services (salons, tattoo parlors, dog grooming, personal training, etc.) will open with strict precautions. K-12 schools and postsecondary institutions will continue to suspend normal in-person instruction for the 2019-20 school year. Telecommuting continues for offices. Starting on May 4, up to 50% of staff can work in person (with social distancing in place).The state is not changing requirements for nursing homes and other senior care facilities. There will continue to be restrictions on visiting residents.The safer-at-home phase is not:A free-for-all. An opportunity to leave the house as much as possible and spread the virus to others.An excuse to not wear a facial covering, or begin giving hugs or handshakes.Going to the mountains to spend the weekend. Conducting unnecessary travel.Having parties or get-togethers.Playing in pickup sports games.In the coming days, further guidance will be provided to a variety of affected industries, including retail, offices, elective medical and dental services, child care, education, personal services and real estate.
