KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Kalamazoo Sheriff Richard Fuller is providing further explanation for what is recommended for travel during the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.
Previously, Fuller had issued a video statement Monday to explain the recent discovery of COVID-19 cases in Kalamazoo.
Tuesday, Fuller addressed concerns raised about what qualifies as “essential travel” and whether it was going to be enforced.
“We’ve had several questions, I would like to address the fact that there are no law enforcement agencies stopping traffic, asking them for a letter or telling them that they’re not essential travel,” Fuller said. “We’re leaving this up to our citizens. Our citizens do a pretty good job of making sure they follow the rules, but that’s why we are trying to give you some things to think about.”
Fuller recommends, where applicable, try to have one family member going to the grocery store once a week, one gas station trip a week, and other instances of reduced travel.
“Those are things that would be really good for people to consider,” Fuller said.
However, Fuller understands that some situations can be unique, owing to factors like storage capacity and different nutritional needs, among others. Fuller says understanding what qualifies as essential is crucial.
“We’re relying on our citizens to help us,” Fuller said. “When we say these things, it’s important for you to be able to look up what is essential, and what’s available as an essential service.”
To start with, Fuller says a good resource is the Kalamazoo Health and Community Services Department website, as well as the Michigan government website.
“We want you to understand that it’s important that you take care of your families, and one way we suggest is limit your travel,” Fuller said. “But we also know that there are children exchanges, certain doctor appointments that are still going on, and we want you to still do those things, but take your precautions. Limit your travel.”
Fuller says that the Sheriff’s Department will try to keep the public informed as much as possible through periodic video webinars. Fuller maintains that the department is not stopping vehicles and asking for letters.
Meanwhile, Kalamazoo Health and Community Services are issuing the following tips to avoid infection. People should:
- Wash their hands.
- Stay home when sick.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Avoid touching their face.
- Disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
- Avoid shaking hands.
- Follow suggested guidelines for social distancing.
For social distancing, citizens should practice the following:
- Keep six feet between yourself and others when possible.
- Avoid public places at their busiest times.
- Work from home when possible.
- Cancel gatherings of more than 50 people as required by Michigan law. However, it is recommended gatherings not exceed 10 people.
- Limit travel.
- If you suspect you have COVID-19, call ahead before visiting any healthcare facility. Mildly ill people are encouraged to stay home and contact their healthcare provider by phone for guidance.
Fuller’s comments come directly after Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a “stay home, stay safe” Executive Order in the wake of the COVID-19 virus earlier this week.
For further information on available services, a full list of state-wide resources can be viewed through Michigan Bridges.
