Indiana's Critical Industries Hotline will open 9 a.m. Tuesday to field questions and help guide businesses and industries with Gov. Eric Holcomb's stay-at-home order.
This center only open for business and industry questions and is reachable by calling 877-820-0890 or by emailing covidresponse@iedc.in.gov.
Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb delivered a statewide address Monday to order Hoosiers remain in their homes except when they are at work or for permitted activities, such as taking care of others, obtaining necessary supplies and for health and safety.
This mandatory "stay-at-home" order will be in effect from March 25 to April 7.
According to a press release from the governor's office, if the order is not followed, the Indiana State Police will work with local law enforcement to enforce this order. The Indiana State Department of Health and the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission will enforce the restaurant and bar restrictions.
Businesses:
Essential businesses and services include but are not limited to grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, police stations, fire stations, hospitals, doctor’s offices, health care facilities, garbage pickup, public transit, and public service hotlines such as SNAP and HIP 2.0.
Law enforcement will not be stopping drivers on their way to and from work, traveling for an essential activity such as going to the grocery store, or just taking a walk, the press release states.
If a person has been designated essential by their employer, they should continue to go to work and practice social distancing.
Restaurants and bars can continue to provide takeout and delivery, but should be closed to dine-in patrons. Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers are considered essential businesses. Hair salons, spas, nail salons, tattoo parlors and barber shops are order closed.
Healthcare:
If a person develops symptoms such as fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19, or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19, it states people should stay home and call their healthcare provider.
People who suspect they have COVID-19, should call their healthcare provider in advance so proper precautions can be taken to limit further transmission.
Older patients and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions or are immunocompromised should contact their healthcare provider early, even if their illness is mild.
Those with severe symptoms, such as persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face, should contact the healthcare provider or emergency room and seek care immediately, but call in advance if possible. The doctor will determine if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether you should be tested.
Nonessential medical care such as eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be postponed and health care visits should be done remotely when possible.
State-operated developmental centers, intermediate care facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities and community integrated living arrangements will continue to provide care. All in-home direct care staff are considered essential staff and should continue to support individuals in the home setting.
While people should try remaining at home, they may visit family members who need medical or other essential assistance, such as ensuring an adequate food supply.
The state, in conjunction with the city of Indianapolis and all hospital systems in Marion County, has activated a comprehensive emergency operations center to maximize hospital capacity and provide joint coordination. This center is charged with tracking the inventory of all hospital beds, supplies and personnel as the number of COVID-19 patients grows.
Day cares and schools:
People can take their children to daycares as they are considered an essential business.
All K-12 schools in Indiana have stopped in-person teaching unit May 1. However, schools that provide free food services to students will continue on a pickup and take-home basis.
Transportation:
Public transportation, ride-sharing and taxis should only be used for essential travel. Indiana roads will remain open, but people should only travel if it is for your health or essential work.
Planes and other types of transportation should be used for essential travel.
In conjunction with the closures, Holcomb has ordered an automatic extension of all state-issued licenses and will advise law enforcement to refrain from issuing citations for a driver’s license or registration that expires during this emergency.
Pets:
People are allowed to walk their dogs and seek medical care for your pet should they require it. However, they should practice social distancing while out on walks, maintaining at least 6 feet from other neighbors and their pets.
Parks and exercise:
State parks remain open, but welcome centers, inns and other buildings are closed. It states families will be able to go outside and take a walk, run or ride their bikes, but should continue to practice social distancing.
Playgrounds are closed because due to the high risk of increasing spreading the virus.
Outdoor exercise such as running or taking a walk is acceptable and people should practice social distancing. However, gyms, fitness centers and associated facilities will be closed to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.
Religious services:
Large gatherings, including church services, will be canceled and religious leaders are encouraged to continue livestreaming services while practicing social distancing with one another.
Homelessness and unsafe homes:
If it is not safe for people to remain home, they are able and encouraged to find another safe place to stay during this order and are encouraged to reach out so someone can help.
People can call the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or their local law enforcement, if needed.
The press release state the administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Hoosiers, regardless of where they live. State agencies are partnering with community organizations to ensure the homeless population has safe shelter.
State government:
Beginning Tuesday, all state government offices will be closed to in-person public activity until at least April 7. This includes the Government Center complex in Indianapolis and other offices throughout the state, including Bureau of Motor Vehicle branches.
State employees will work remotely whenever possible and continue to provide core functions online and by phone. All public safety functions will continue.
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