HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- To combat the evolving spread of COVID-19 in Massachusetts, Governor Baker has directed the Department of Public Health to issue a stay at home advisory outlining self-isolation and social distancing protocols. Residents are advised to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel and other unnecessary activities during this two-week time period.
What does this mean for our housing residents? To be clear, residents are not simply confined to their homes under the governor’s guidance or any associated base guidance.
Travel to and from essential services is still permitted. This includes the grocery store/food services, pharmacy, gas, take-out food, work as required, medical care (call ahead unless an emergency).
Numerous leisure activities remain available and are recommended. They include:
- Walking/running/hiking solo or with only the individuals or dogs living in your home.
- Backyard barbeque with only the individuals/pets living in your home.
- Personal gatherings with individuals in your household/pets at open outdoor spaces such as a field or park where you are practicing social distancing - E.G., picnic in grass with just your household family, avoiding permanent fixtures such tables/benches.
- Virtual hangouts on platforms like: Google Hangout, Face-time, Skype, etc.
However certain leisure activities are now strongly discouraged. They include:
-Bringing visitors into your home.
-In person hangouts or sleepovers with friends/neighbors in or outside of the household.
-Athletic and recreational activities that bring participants into close physical contact ,even if it involves 10 or fewer people.
Also, please note: All base playgrounds, skate park, basketball courts and volleyball courts are off limits.
Base leaders will continue to monitor the situation and keep people posted. And they offer the following reminder: "We’re all in this together. Please adhere to the guidelines above for the safety of our community. Thank you for your continued cooperation."