Council highlights importance of social distancing

In accordance with Government advice people should stay at home and only leave:

• to shop for basic necessities and that should be limited to once a day
• to take exercise once a day - but alone or with your own household, not in groups
• for medical reasons or to care for a vulnerable person
• to travel to essential work if that cannot be done at home. Further guidance to employers is pending.

This means it is possible to exercise or go for a walk in open space locally. However, when doing this or undertaking any of the above activities, people should be minimising the amount of time spent outside of the home and ensure they stay two metres apart from anyone outside of their household.

Depute Council Leader Norman Hampshire said:

“It is essential that we all play our part in flattening the curve and helping to curb the spread of coronavirus. Doing so is about aiming to prevent the NHS from becoming overwhelmed at a time when resources are being focused on those requiring treatment.

“I would like to thank East Lothian residents for following the very important national health and government advice. It is important that we remain patient by staying at home as much as possible at this difficult time.

“I know some people are understandably concerned and so I want to take this opportunity to reiterate Government advice.

“It is essential that people avoid non-essential travel as well as public gatherings, and follow social distancing advice at all times.

“Last week, in the interests of public health, the council took the decision to close coastal car parks and children’s play areas.

“In line with Government advice, people are advised to stay local for exercise and use open spaces near to your home where possible avoiding unnecessary travel, including driving. It is also important to ensure you stay two metres away from others.

“I know this is difficult but taking these steps are really crucial if we are to slow the spread of the virus and save lives.”