Leaders from across the Humber region are urging residents to follow Government advice and stay at home to protect loved ones from coronavirus.
The heads of public sector organisations including Hull City Council, Humberside Police, health organisations, Humberside Fire and Rescue and some private sector organisations are making the appeal to residents.
Deputy Chief Constable Chris Rowley, chair of the Strategic Co-ordination Group, which responds to emergencies across the region, said: “As we enter a crucial stage in the Covid-19 pandemic, we need to do everything we can to slow the spread.
“Local public and private sector organisations and charities are doing everything we can to support local communities.
“But we also need those communities to do their bit to protect all of our families, friends and neighbours, be that grandparents, parents or even young children.
“We understand that people want to go out and that they see the coast and our regions parks as a good option. However, we are seeing large amount of people congregating in these areas and need everyone to understand that it is important that we all avoid any unnecessary interaction with those who we do not live with.
“Many of us have older relatives who fought bravely in the field during wars to keep us all safe and now is the time for us all to step up and do what’s needed to keep them safe in return.
“We are all still getting used to this new concept of social distancing, but it is really important we listen to the advice from the people in our health service and Government scientists to avoid some incredibly difficult consequences.
“Social distancing means physically staying apart from each other, as infections spread easily in closed spaces where people gather together.
SOCIAL DISTANCING:
▪️ Everyone should be reducing their interactions with others to reduce transmission of #COVID19
▪️ People at increased risk of severe illness should be particularly stringent in following the advice
▪️ Read our guidance here: https://t.co/BLvX4WHfvE pic.twitter.com/kwifqbAIsl— Public Health England (@PHE_uk) March 20, 2020
“This includes avoiding large and small gatherings in public spaces, avoiding non-essential use of public transport, working from home and wherever possible avoiding gatherings with friends and family. If you really do need to see people, make sure you keep at least two metres apart.
“If you’re unsure what to do, then just imagine that you might have the virus and change your behaviour to prevent other people catching it from you and becoming seriously poorly.
“The alternative is unthinkable – an NHS that is over-run, not just from looking after Covid-19 patients but which is also struggling to deal with the everyday emergencies and health needs of our communities.
“Only by working together and doing the right thing we will get through this major public health challenge. We must be kind to one another and support each other. We ask everyone to help others do the right thing by sharing the information and education about the virus.
“On behalf of all those working in the public sector and those in the private and charity sectors who are providing the much needed support 24/7, I would like to thank the almost 1 million people in the Humber region for doing the right thing and keeping each other safe.
