Indiana Department of Homeland Security Executive Director Steve Cox urges residents to remain safe as the state moves into the third stage of reopening. During Friday’s press briefing hosted by Governor Eric Holcomb, Cox said now is not the time to become complacent.
Cox stated, “As the state continues to reopen, we need to remember this increased flexibility also brings additional challenges to our commitment to continue social distancing from one another. I believe Dr. Weaver said a couple of weeks ago that the hard part starts now. Stay diligent to protect yourself and your fellow Hoosiers. Please follow the CDC guidelines so Indiana can continue to move forward safely.”
If residents are 65 years of age or older, or those with underlying medical conditions, remain sheltered at home. Masks should be used when out in public and observe social distancing measures at all times. Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds at a time and use hand sanitizer when washing hands is not an option.
Hoosiers should stay home if not feeling well.
Beyond that, the state’s departments are assisting Hoosiers who need help during this pandemic.
“The swift nature of this health emergency has resulted in many state agencies stepping up in different ways to address important needs as they arise,” commented Cox. “For example, IDHS staff coordinated the critical industries website and hotline to guide businesses and employees through an unprecedented time of closures and restrictions. Now, several weeks later, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security has been and will continue to share its subject matter expertise in building code and safety to guide these businesses through a reopening process with new and unfamiliar occupancy restrictions.”
The staff with the Code and Enforcement section at the Indiana Department of Homeland Security visits businesses to help them keep in compliance. An extensive field staff is assigned to districts in the Indiana and look to help businesses, restaurant and retail to get back on track.
In addition, over 60 complaints were received by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security regarding businesses that did not comply with the occupancy limits during Stage 2 in the governor’s “Back on Track” plan. An investigation into the issues found that the complaints were unfounded. Officials can help business owners if there are questions about occupancy levels or seating arrangements at their facilities.
