Gov. issues 'stay at home' order
Gov. J.B. Pritzker has issued a "stay at home" order to all Illinois residents in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The order began Saturday, March 21 lasts until Thursday, April 30.
During this time, residents should stay at home unless they are doing an essential activity such as buying groceries, seeking medical treatment, taking care of a loved one, getting gas, picking up prescription medication, going to a laundromat, engaging in outdoor exercise, taking a pet for a walk, or travelling to jobs that have been deemed essential (such as healthcare providers, grocery store clerks and first responders).
While the order is in effect, public and private gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited, and residents are encouraged to practice social distancing to ensure there is at least six feet between people. Elderly residents and those who are at a high risk should take extra precautions by staying indoors as much as possible.
“You’ll still be able to do a lot of things, including outdoor activities like walking or riding your bike, and of course getting needed supplies and medications,” Mayor Jacob Vandenberg said. “You’ll even still be able to go to certain restaurants for take-out. For those of us who have already begun to self-quarantine, things really won’t change that much.”
Essential services that will still be operational include grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, police and fire stations; certain government offices, hospitals, clinics and healthcare operations; garbage collection, public transportation, public benefits such as Medicaid, convenience stores, liquor stores, laundry services, hardware and supply stores; financial institutions and mail service. Residents will be allowed to take advantage of these services during the order.
“This may be an executive order, but we should look at it as more of an opportunity to work together to do our part to make sure the most vulnerable among us stay safe,” Vandenberg said. “This is only temporary. If we all look out for each other and stick together, we’ll get through this.”
Find out more about the Village’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak on the Village website at TinleyPark.org/COVID-19.
Read Gov. Pritzker’s executive order or see a list of frequently asked questions for more information.