Dover District Council is urging residents to stay at home, and avoid unnecessary travel to coastal areas, parks and other popular open spaces this Easter weekend as the country battles to delay the spread of coronavirus.
Cllr Trevor Bartlett, Leader of Dover District Council, said: “Let’s stay at home, protect the NHS, and save lives this Easter weekend. It’s critical that residents follow the Government’s advice this weekend and only leave home for essentials, such as food, medicines, and exercise.
“Despite the temptation of warmer weather, you should not travel to the coast, parks or other open spaces to do your exercise, and certainly don’t go to public places for picnics or social gatherings. You should stay home and only go out alone or with members of your own household.”
Government advice warns against getting too close to other people who do not live with you, otherwise known as social distancing.
KCC Director of Public Health, Andrew Scott-Clark, said: “Remember when out to stay two metres (six feet) away from other people – that’s either two very big steps or hold your arm out and then double that distance. It’s vital that we all continue with a sensible approach to protect ourselves and our loved ones and avoid the strain on the NHS.”
Residents are also being urged not to set bonfires to dispose of waste, and to be careful with barbecues as the smoke created could affect those with respiratory conditions, especially if they are suffering with coronavirus symptoms.
If you need urgent help, essential supplies or medication over the Easter weekend, please contact the 24-hour helpline – Kent Together – which provides a single, convenient point of contact for anyone in the county who is in urgent need of help during the Coronavirus outbreak. It is a collaboration between KCC, central Government, District, Borough and local councils, the voluntary and community sector, the NHS and other partners to ensure help is at hand for vulnerable people. You can call the 24-hour helpline on 03000 41 92 92.
The Dover District Community Hub is also open throughout the Easter weekend from 9am to 5pm on 01304 821199 or by e-mail at Covid19@dover.gov.uk
Posted on 09 April 2020