Hide Transcript Show Transcript

THEY CAN LEAVE THEIR HOME FOR "ESSENTIAL ACTIVITIES." THAT INCLUDES THINGS LIKE GOING TO THE DOCTOR OR SHOPPING FOR NECESSITIES. ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES LIKE GAS STATIONS... BANKS... AND GROVERY STORES... ARE STAYING OPEN. OFFICIALS ARE REMINDING EVERYONE TO PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING IF THEY GO OUT. ### NEW INFORMATION THE

Advertisement Central Coast counties have issued shelter-in-place orders. Here's what you need to know Share Shares Copy Link Copy

A large portion of Central Coast residents are required to stay home except for essential needs as of March 18 due to the spread of the coronavirus. San Benito County, Santa Cruz County and Monterey County have issued shelter-in-place orders, following in the footsteps of six San Francisco Bay Area counties that have issued similar orders that will last at least three weeks. Here's what you need to know about the shelter-in-place orders. How long does it last?Until midnight on April 7. What will still be open?A lot of things will still be open:City/County government services: Police/Sheriff stations, fire stations, hospitals/clinics and healthcare operations, jails, garbage/sanitation, transportation, utilities (water, power and gas) and most offices Gas stations Pharmacies Food: Grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores, take-out and delivery restaurants Hardware stores/plumbers/ electricians and those who provide services necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences Banks Community benefit organizations on a case-by-case basis Laundromats/laundry services CemeteriesThe following types of businesses will be closed: Dine-in restaurants Bars and nightclubs Entertainment venues Gyms and fitness studiosWhat is the point of this order?This is a critical intervention to reduce harm from the spread of the coronavirus in our community. Is this mandatory? The orders are legal orders 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). What are some things that I can't 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.What do I do if I'm sick? Hospitals and medical facilities are exempted from the order. You are free to go there and get medical attention.If possible, walk or drive yourself to the healthcare. If someone else in your home is sick and can drop you off, that is another good option. You want to try to avoid exposing others to any germs you have, especially if you are seriously ill.Drug stores and other medical supply stores can operate. When possible, you should have the drug store deliver your prescription medicine to your home. Can I still receive deliveries?Yes. The mail and other delivery services to your home can continue to function, as can food delivery services. 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.What about transportation?You can still take public transportation and use ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft 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. Do you 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.What can I do to help?You can check on vulnerable neighbors, support families who children are out of school and support local business where possible (such as order takeout). If you are a non-essential business, you can close your business down in compliance with the order.What if I have more questions? Call 211, for all non-emergency and non-medical inquiries. Visit KSBW's Coronavirus page for more information.