03/31/2020
Let’s talk for a moment on self-responsibility. Warning this will be lengthy post but at this point some of you need to hear this. For those following instructions, THANK YOU! I am not looking to start a debate and those that feel the need to comment with such will not be answered. Just read and let it sink in.
I have had many conversations with local elected officials, state officials, and other EMA Directors throughout the state in recent weeks about how to best address this crisis. Many of you have also reached out to express concerns over the government’s response to this. Comments have been mixed as to whether the restrictions are positive, negative, and some that want more. The governments restrictions, whether that be state or local, are attempting to limit the spread of this virus to the best degree possible without crippling the economy and putting businesses and stores out of business.
No matter the degree of restrictions placed we have a responsibility as a community to help fight the spread. I have seen on multiple occasions people gathered in large groups. We as a community / individuals are failing horribly at this. I will use Lowe’s as a reference because that has been the hot topic over the past few days. (This problem is not limited just to Lowe’s) How many of you are waiting to get into Lowe’s to buy flowers and mulch for your gardens? I completely understand if a pipe burst in your home needing to go get that replaced but mulch? How important is a flower bed compared to your chances of spreading or contracting this virus? There are other stores that have this same problem and they are doing everything in their power to limit access to help with social distancing but we as a community MUST help them. The message from the very beginning has not changed. This virus is and will continue to spread if WE do not do our part. The government can come in and make every restriction possible but if we do not take self-responsibility for this those restrictions are pointless.
Social distancing goes well beyond just having to get your food curbside and the children being out of school. DO NOT go to the stores (no matter what store it is) for frivolous items. If you legitimately need something go, get it, but limit your time there as much as possible and keep your distance from people while you’re there. Wash your hands regularly and wash your clothing when you get home after going out. I fully understand that this is difficult and many of you are used to being out and about, but it must stop. WE AS INDIVIDUALS MUST STOP IT.
If we continue to fail as a community the healthcare system will become overwhelmed even more than they are now. Imagine if you will, you or someone in your family suffers a horrible medical problem and there is no hospital bed available for you due to COVID-19 patients having them. We are not there yet but if we do not do our part and continue going out around groups this will become a reality.
Sorry for the rant, but after seeing the way some of the community is reacting to this, it needed to be said. Again, not looking for debate on how things are being handled by our local governments. They are doing the best they can to help combat this. NOW IT IS TIME FOR US TO DO OUR PART.
In closing, stay away from people and groups, wash your hands, look at the CDC site for guidance, and take some self-responsibility. For those that cared enough to read this, Thank You!