On Wednesday night, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti's issued an emergency authority order to residents to "cancel everything" amid a spike in COVID-19 cases. The new order was issued after Los Angeles County reported a total of 5,987 novel coronavirus cases on Wednesday, following a record high of 7,593 cases the day before. Currently, 2,439 people are hospitalized with COVID-19 and 40 deaths were reported Wednesday.
"My message couldn't be simpler. It's time to hunker down. It's time to cancel everything. And if it isn’t essential, don’t do it," Garcetti said in a video message. "Don't meet up with others outside your household. Don't host a gathering. Don't attend a gathering. And following our targeted 'Safer at Home' order, if you're able to stay home, stay home."
The order, which was sent as a text alert to residents, states that residents must socially distance, while all public and private gatherings are prohibited, along with all travel, except for essential activities.
The orders residents to remain at home, except to carry out essential activities. Travel on foot, bicycle, scooter, motorcycle, automobile or public transit is prohibited. Exemptions include retailers, hotels, childcare facilities, care homes and restaurants that have enacted the County of Los Angeles' health protocols, as well as, gas stations, banks, grocery stores and health care facilities.
The order also restricts opening hours for city parks and trails, day camps, golf courses, beaches and piers, outdoor and indoor pools, music and video production, gyms, and salons from 10 PM to 5 AM. Officials also hope to limit gatherings of families and friends.
Failure to comply with the order "shall constitute a misdemeanor subject to fines and imprisonment and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power has been authorized to shut off utility service for violations. "The new year brings hope — for vaccines and for stopping this pandemic. But here's the truth: we're in for a long, hard winter. As the worst hits us, stay home as much as you can. Cancel any non-essential activities," Garcetti said.
Source: Hollywood Reporter