COVID-19 Information

State outlines requirements to help with safer reopening

The State of Colorado announced that additional Colorado businesses can begin to reopen with strict precautions to protect public health and safety. According to an extended Safer-at-Home Executive Order, restaurants can open beginning May 27. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) also extended its Safer-at-Home public health order to align with the state.

“We support this next step permitting our food establishments to reopen to the public following the state’s science-based guidelines,” said Dr. Mark B. Johnson, MD, MPH, executive director at JCPH. “We appreciate the great efforts of our business community to implement appropriate precautions thus far, and we anticipate that restaurant operators across Jefferson County will take all necessary precautions and be vigilant in implementing all aspects of the new public health orders.”

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has released guidance to help restaurants prepare to reopen, including required precautions for both pick-up services and on-premises dining (indoor and outdoor).

Requirements include but are not limited to:

• Indoor dine-in service can be held at 50 percent of the posted occupancy code limit and a maximum of 50 patrons, whichever is less.
• Patrons in different parties must be a minimum of 6 feet apart.
• Party size must be limited to eight people or fewer.
• All employees must wear face coverings.
• Employees must deep clean and disinfect all shared surfaces between parties/at each turnover.

Additionally, customers are strongly encouraged to take precautions when visiting restaurants:

• Do not congregate and follow all instructions to keep space between you and others not in your party.
• Wear a facial covering when not eating or drinking.
• Use contact-less payment options whenever possible.
• Vulnerable populations should continue to use curbside delivery/pick-up options.

“Consumers play an important role in helping our restaurants reopen more safely, too,” Johnson said. “As we take these steps to reopen our economy, we need the community to continue following basic public health recommendations, including wearing a face covering when in public, always staying at least 6 feet away from others, practicing good hygiene, and isolating and getting tested if experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.”

The state also announced that private camp sites are permitted to open beginning May 25, and children’s day camps and youth sports camps can open on June 1. (Residential overnight camps will be closed in June.) JCPH has rescinded public health order 20-003 to align local policies around youth sports with the state; therefore, these activities will be permitted in Jefferson County beginning June 1 as well.

For more information about Safer-at-Home and guidance for a variety of businesses and industries including restaurants, children’s day camps and youth sports camps, visit covid19.colorado.gov/safer-at-home or www.jeffco.us/safer-at-home.

Beginning May 9, 2020, Jefferson County will follow the state’s Safer-at-Home order. Under this order, businesses must review the industry specific guidance for their business and implement all requirements prior to opening. Please visit the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE)’s Safer-at-Home webpage for industry specific guidance and best practices for all businesses. You can also visit JCPH’s resource hub at www.jeffco.us/safer-at-home.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

What is still closed?

• Restaurants, food courts, cafes, coffeehouses and other similar places of public accommodation offering food or beverage for on-premises consumption. Delivery, take-out and drive-up service is available.
• Bars, taverns, brew pubs, breweries, microbreweries, distillery pubs, wineries, tasting rooms, special licensees, clubs and other places of public accommodation offering alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption.
• Cigar bars for onsite consumption.
• Gymnasiums, yoga and fitness studios; bowling alleys.
• Playgrounds.
• Libraries.
• Movie and performance theaters, opera houses, concert halls, music halls and museums.
• Casinos.
• Horse tracks and simulcast facilities, also known as off-track betting facilities.
• Indoor gun ranges.
• Swimming pools.

Are the Safer-at-Home executive order and corresponding public health orders mandatory or just guidance?

They are mandatory.

Is the guidance for business under Safer-at-Home required, or just recommendations/best practices?

It is expected that all businesses reopening under the Safer-at-Home order follow all applicable guidance provided by JCPH and CDPHE. Please refer to industry-specific guidance related to your business and details in the state’s Safer-at-Home order. Use of terms “shall,” “must,” or “require” indicate mandatory language, not a recommendation.

If I'm not allowed to open yet, what can I be doing to prepare for my reopening date?

Businesses should review industry specific guidance and begin developing COVID-19 plans to ensure safe operations prior to opening.

Do I need to open if I am not comfortable with the way the orders are written?

No. No business is required to open under the Safer-at-Home order. Businesses should only open if they have complied with all of the requirements for their business and feel that it is safe to do so.

What if a business isn’t following the Safer-at-Home requirements after opening to the public?

Businesses will only be allowed to open if they are in compliance with Safer-at-Home requirements, and it is in a business’s best interest to ensure the safety of their employees and customers. Businesses that fail to comply with the requirements of the order may be subject to civil and criminal penalties including an Order to Close. Information regarding non-compliance may be used against a business during the renewal process of any special license or permits.

How will this order be enforced?

Colorado law requires compliance with executive and public health orders; therefore, not following these orders is breaking the law. We all must do our part to ensure success, and call upon all people in Colorado to voluntarily comply. Local law enforcement agencies and local public health agencies can enforce public health orders. State law enforcement will assist and support in any way requested, but voluntary compliance is critical. Law enforcement involvement is reserved for the most aggravated circumstances. Learn more about public health orders and how they are enforced.

Has anything changed for Critical Businesses?

Critical Businesses that were open under the Stay-at-Home order will remain open during the Safer-at-Home level with the same strict precautions (physical distancing, non-medical masks for all employees, more frequent cleanings, etc.). Critical Businesses must continue to comply with distancing requirements at all times, adopt work-from-home or telework policies for any operations that can be done remotely, and implement other strategies, such as staggered schedules or redesigning workplaces, to create more distance between workers unless doing so would make it impossible to carry out critical functions. A list of critical businesses is available at covid19.colorado.gov/critical-businesses.

Will JCPH review plans for businesses to reopen?

No. JCPH does not have the capacity to review plans for all businesses. We have developed resources for businesses to use as a tool in the development of their COVID-19 plans, available at www.jeffco.us/safer-at-home.

WORKSITES

As an employer or business owner, are there resources to help me understand what it means to have "proper ventilation" and how to achieve it?

Increased ventilation in buildings may remove aerosol droplets from the air. Businesses can increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting their air-conditioning. For more information on proper ventilation, please see the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s guidance.

Can I expand my operations, displays, etc., outdoors to the sidewalk, parking lot or landscaped area to make room for social distancing while also accommodating my operational needs?

Before expanding operations, you may need to check with your landlord. You should also coordinate with the local government’s Building Permit and Zoning officials as well as any other applicable licensing agencies to maintain compliance with other applicable regulations. Can I modify my facility or building to accommodate social distancing requirements or other COVID-19 safety measures? Before making any modifications, you may need to check with your landlord. If you need to modify your facility — either inside or outside the building — coordinate with the local government’s Building Permit and Zoning officials as well as any other applicable licensing agencies to maintain compliance with other applicable regulations. How does an employer stay in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) while also screening employees for COVID-19 symptoms? See the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s supplemental guidance for information on maintaining employee confidentiality when gathering health-related information.

EMPLOYEES

Will my business be required to do at-the-door temperature checks for employees?

All businesses with more than 25 employees are required to do temperature checks prior to allowing employees to begin work. Businesses with fewer than 25 employees may ask their employees to self-screen prior to coming to work. Please see CDPHE’s Symptom Screening Guidance for additional information.

If my business isn't considered "Critical" by the State, are my employees required to wear masks?

Yes, the requirement for all employees interacting with public as well as those that cannot maintain six feet from coworkers at all times to wear a mask can be found in Public Health Order 20-28. Employers are required to provide masks to employees who do not have one. For more information on these requirements, please review the industry specific guidance for your business.

Safer-at-Home requires some workers to wear gloves. What kind of gloves are required and for whom?

Non-critical health care service providers are required to wear disposable patient examination gloves such as nitrile, rubber, polychloroprene or vinyl gloves. Personal service providers (e.g., hair stylists) are recommended to wear the same.

CUSTOMERS

Are people required to wear masks in stores?

All workers should wear medical or non-medical face coverings that cover the mouth and nose while at work, except where doing so would inhibit health, and to wear gloves (if gloves are provided by an employer) when in contact with customers or goods. Colorado is asking everyone who is able to wear a non-medical cloth face covering while out in public for necessary activities like grocery shopping, going to work, etc., — but masks are not required for the general public and customers of stores at this time in Jefferson County. Businesses that would like to require the general public to wear non-medical masks when in their establishments are permitted and encouraged to do so.

As a retail business owner, can I require customers to wear a non-medical mask of some sort prior to them entering the premises?

Yes. Businesses can and are encouraged to require non-medical mask wearing by the general public. Businesses can place signage requiring non-medical masks/face coverings at entrances and throughout their establishments. However, some people may have a medical condition (whether visible or not) that prevents them from wearing a face covering. Only those that are able to wear face coverings safely should be required to wear one.

Do I need to verify that a person is actually vulnerable if they arrive for my Vulnerable Individuals store hours?

No. Businesses should post signage encouraging vulnerable individuals to use special hours, including information on what individuals are considered vulnerable.

Is my business supposed to refuse service to vulnerable people based on the Safer-at-Home Order?

No. Vulnerable individuals are urged to stay at home to the greatest extent possible but businesses are not expected or encouraged to refuse service to a vulnerable person.

INDUSTRY SPECIFIC

What are the guidelines for farmers markets opening?

For guidance on the operation of farmers markets, visit: https://cofarmersmarkets.org/marketing-resources/.

What services are personal service businesses permitted to provide at this time?

Under the state’s Safer-At-Home order, personal service businesses are permitted to serve customers in-person subject to several limitations. These individual services may only be performed with 10 or fewer people in a single location or a maximum of 50% occupancy for the location, whichever is less, including both employees and customers. No service may be provided that requires a customer to remove their mask. For more information on allowable and restricted personal services activities, see CDPHE’s Personal Services specific guidance.

How should aestheticians, salons and other personal care services reopen if clients are not permitted to remove their masks?

Personal care services may open but should only provide services that do not require the removal of a client’s mask/face covering.

Are dog groomers permitted to operate? Can they offer curbside services?

Dog groomers are permitted to continue operations under the Safer-At-Home order as a personal care service. Curbside pet pick-up and drop-off is strongly encouraged. For more information on the requirements for dog groomers, please see CDPHE’s guidance for Personal Care Services.

Can restaurants open patio seating under the Safer-at-Home Order?

Patio seating for onsite consumption is not allowed. Under the state’s Safer-At-Home order, restaurants may continue operations through curbside, take-out and delivery only.

What kind of construction is allowed?

For information on permissible construction activities, please see CDPHE’s Multi-Industry Construction Guidance.

What is a limited healthcare setting vs. an elective procedure?

Limited Health Care Settings are a new category of businesses regulated under Public Health Order 20-28. They are defined as locations where certain healthcare services are provided, including acupuncture (not related to personal services), athletic training (not related to personal services), audiology services, services by hearing aid providers, chiropractic care, massage therapy (not related to personal services), naturopathic care, occupational therapy services, optometry services, podiatry services, physical therapy, and speech language pathology services. These individual services may only be performed with 10 or fewer people in a single location or a maximum of 50% occupancy for the location, whichever is less, including both employees and patients.

Are there recommendations for medical offices regarding patients they shouldn't see? What about vulnerable people who should be staying at home?

Vulnerable individuals are encouraged to stay home to the greatest extent possible. Vulnerable individuals should only seek in-person care if necessary. Medical facilities should continue to maximize the use of telehealth and virtual office visits. For more information on requirements for medical services, please see Public Health Order 20-29 and CDPHE’s Resources for Health Care Providers.

What are the regulations for dental procedures (includes orthodontics)?

Dental facilities must seek viable options for eliminating, reducing or containing aerosol production during care, including delaying all non-urgent care for patients with COVID-19 symptoms, and selectively canceling or postponing elective treatment, including but not limited to prophylactic preventive treatment provided by dental hygienists. For information on the requirements for businesses providing elective dental procedures, please refer to Public Health Order 20-29.

Do medical providers need to be approved by CDPHE/DORA to resume elective procedures?

No. Medical providers must adhere to the requirements under Public Health Order 20-29. Preapproval is not required prior to operating.

Can acupuncture, optometrists, massage therapists and physical therapists open?

Yes. Limited Health Care Settings are permitted to operate subject to the requirements of Public Health Order 20-28. Safer-at-Home requires that non-critical health care service providers (e.g., chiropractors, acupuncturists, etc.,) wear a medical grade mask.

What is a medical grade mask?

A medical grade face mask is also called a surgical mask. These are disposable, fluid-resistant masks that provide the wearer protection against large droplets, splashes, or sprays of bodily or other hazardous fluids. They also protect others from the wearer’s respiratory emissions. Surgical masks do not provide the wearer reliable protection from inhaling smaller airborne particles. N95 or other types of respirators should be considered if available and if the wearer seeks protection from small particle aerosols.

Are non-medical masks and gloves required for food handlers?

All employees for all businesses having contact with the public are required to wear non-medical masks, which includes food handlers. Food handlers should utilize disposable gloves as normally required by their governing regulations.

Will churches, synagogues, mosques and other places of worship reopen under the Safer-at-Home order if they follow physical distancing requirements?

During the Safer-at-Home period, gatherings in both public and private spaces of more than 10 people are prohibited. Places of worship are encouraged to continue providing access to services online or drive-up worship (as long as vehicles are turned off and not idling). For more information please refer to CDPHE Guidance for Places of Worship.

Do the staff, singers, production team, etc., at a place of worship have to wear non-medical masks/face coverings, or is this strongly recommended as it is for the congregants?

Staff, including the production team and singers, are considered employees for the purposes of Safer-At-Home requirements. As such, they must be wearing a non-medical mask/face covering if they will have contact with other employees or congregants.

Can churches do “no contact” dispensing of communion and wine for the sacraments of communion?

Places of Worship are encouraged to take every precaution to ensure social distancing. Please refer to CDPHE Guidance for Places of Worship.

When will gyms be open? What about fitness classes in a studio?

Gyms will remain closed under Safer-at-Home, and that includes fitness studios such as yoga, Pilates, barre, etc. Indoor personal training/classes with a maximum of four people including the trainer is permissible. Those participating must be physically distant and can have no shared equipment.

For gyms that are allowed to hold a group of 4 or less, is the instructor included in this number?

Yes, the instructor is included in the total group count.

For gyms that are allowed to hold a group of 4 or less, do participants have to wear non-medical masks, or just the instructor, or is it highly recommended for both?

Both instructor and participants should wear a non-medical mask/face covering at all times. Only services that can be done without a customer removing their mask should be provided at this time.

Can I open my event venue that hosts 50-250 people?

A variety of venues are permitted to open under the Safer-At-Home, but they cannot host more than 10 people.

Are real estate showings permitted?

Real estate showings are permitted by appointment only and may only occur in unoccupied homes.

OTHER

Can I take returns of items that can't be sanitized as long as I do not re-sell the items?

Yes. If an item will be resold, it must be properly sanitized.

Can I get a prescription filled?

Yes. Pharmacies and other medical services will remain open. Consider having prescriptions delivered to your home.

Helpful information from the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment about your pets and COVID-19.

1. Can I give my household pets COVID-19? Can they give it to me or other animals?

Yes. While rare, there have been some animals that have gotten COVID-19 from their owners or caregivers. At this time there is no evidence to suggest that any animals, including pets or livestock, can spread COVID-19 to people.

2. What should I do about my pets if I am sick?

Further studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19. This is why it's very important to protect your pets by limiting contact if you are sick with either suspected or confirmed COVID-19. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. Avoid contact with your pet including, petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, sharing food, and sleeping with your pet. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with them.

3. What if my pet becomes sick?

As the number of people with COVID-19 in the U.S. increases, it is possible that we may see additional pets develop illness. If your pet does develop mild respiratory symptoms, isolate them alone in a room with their bed, food and water, and other necessities. Call your veterinarian to let them know that your pet has symptoms and that you are isolating them at home. If your pet’s symptoms worsen, contact your veterinarian. Let them know that your pet needs to be evaluated.

4. What should I do when taking my pet out?

Do not let pets interact with people or animals outside the household. If a person inside the household becomes sick, isolate that person from everyone else, including pets. Keep cats indoors as much as possible to keep them from interacting with other animals or people. Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals. Avoid dog parks or public places where large numbers of people and dogs gather.

5. Should my pet be tested?

Routine testing of animals is not recommended at this time. Testing of symptomatic animals for COVID-19 will be limited, and a joint decision between the state veterinarian and the state public health veterinarian in consultation with the National Veterinary Services Laboratory will need to be made. It's critical to conserve testing resources for people.

Jefferson County, Colo. — Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) has issued a public health order extending the state’s Stay-at-Home order in Jefferson County through May 8, 2020, with a key revision to support non-Critical businesses. This extension will help protect our community from COVID-19 as we continue to work aggressively to reduce the high rates of the virus in our county and across the Denver Metro Area.

“No two communities in Colorado are the same, and each community has different needs as we look to the next stages of response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We have to consider what impact opening too soon could have on those in our community and region, and take a phased, science-based approach to reopening,” said Dr. Mark B. Johnson, Executive Director, Jefferson County Public Health. “By working together across the heavily-populated Denver Metro Area, where we have much higher rates of COVID-19, we can reduce some of the confusion and most importantly, protect the health of our residents.”

The key difference between the statewide Stay-at-Home order and the Jefferson County extension, though, is the allowance for non-Critical Businesses to begin to offer curbside delivery of products. Additionally, travel to pick up these goods is now included in the definition for necessary travel.

“Our goal has always been to reduce the severity of this crisis with as short a disruption to people’s economic livelihoods as possible. We hope this update to enable non-Critical Businesses to begin operating in this manner helps us start to get back on our feet,” said Johnson.

Extending the order through May 8 is necessary for Jefferson County because, unlike some areas of the state that have less population density, we have not yet seen a decline in daily COVID-19 cases, nor do we have sufficient testing capacity or data about community compliance. Each of these benchmarks are key factors in the decision to phase toward reopening.

In addition, extending the order for a brief period will allow more time for JCPH to develop and implement strategies in partnership with our business community on how to safely reopen, as well as to communicate with the public about the most effective ways to protect themselves in the face of a rapidly changing pandemic. It will also allow us to ensure our strategies are equitable and reflect the needs of our community as a whole.

Though the statewide Stay-at-Home order is set to expire on Sunday, April 26, Gov. Jared Polis directed local public health officials to implement data-informed strategies at the local level that best meet the needs of local communities. The decision to extend the order within Jefferson County was made after collaboration with public health officials across the Denver Metro Area, as well as with local business owners, community members and elected and appointed officials in Jefferson County. Today’s order from JCPH also means that the new Safer-At-Home order announced by the Governor will not be in effect in Jefferson County.

For more information about COVID-19, including more information about the Stay-at-Home order, a summary of county-level case data and a variety of resources available to support our community, please visit www.jeffco.us/coronavirus.

DENVER - Governor Jared Polis today provided an update on how the state is responding to COVID-19 and provided further clarification on what the Safer-at-Home phase of the pandemic will look like for Coloradans.

“I want to reiterate, the Safer-at-Home phase is not going back to life as normal. It’s not a major adjustment from where we have been,” said Governor Jared Polis. “Safer-at-Home means most Coloradans should continue to limit social interactions to the greatest extent possible to just individuals in your household and wear facial masks when you are out. I’m proud of how Colorado has come together during this difficult period to stay home as much as possible, protecting ourselves and our neighbors. But we still have work to do - we are not through the woods yet.”

The goal of the Safer-at-Home phase is to maintain 60-65% physical distancing. This means:

• Vulnerable populations and older adults must stay home unless absolutely necessary.
• No group gatherings of more than 10 people.
• Critical businesses will remain open with strict precautions (social distancing, masks for all employees, more frequent cleanings, etc.)
• Retail businesses may open for curbside delivery and phased-in public opening with strict precautions.
• Nightclubs, gyms and spas will remain closed.
• Elective medical and dental procedures begin, with strict precautions to ensure adequate personal protective equipment and the ability to meet critical care needs.
• Personal services (salons, tattoo parlors, dog grooming, personal training, etc.) will open with strict precautions.
• K-12 schools and post-secondary institutions will continue to suspend normal in-person instruction for the 2019-2020 school year.
• Telecommuting continues for offices. Starting on May 4, up to 50% of staff can work in person (with social distancing in place).
• The state is not changing requirements for nursing homes and other senior care facilities. There will continue to be restrictions on visiting residents.

The Safer-at-Home phase is not:

• A free-for-all
• An opportunity to leave the house as much as possible and spread the virus to others
• An excuse to not wear a facial covering, or begin giving hugs or handshakes
• Going to the mountains to spend the weekend
• Conducting unnecessary travel
• Having parties or get-togethers
• Playing in pick-up sports games

In the coming days, further guidance will be provided to a variety of affected industries including retail, offices, elective medical and dental services, child care, education, personal services, and real estate.

The Governor also provided guidance and best practices for non-critical workplaces, including their employees and customers. Non-critical workplaces should be operating at no more than 50% in-person capacity and should allow employees to telework whenever possible. For more details on best practices, view the Governor’s presentation.

Under the Safer-at-Home phase, local governments will have a variety of options when it comes to slowing the spread of the virus and protecting their communities.

• Local governments can implement the guidelines of Safer-at-Home to match the state.

• Local governments can go farther than the state, including but not limited to stay-at-home orders or additional protective measures.

• Local governments can relax guidelines more than the state. To do so, local governments will need to demonstrate proof of 14 consecutive days of decline of infection of COVID-19 in the county. They also must submit an application to CDPHE that includes a written COVID-19 suppression plan approved by the appropriate local public health authority, all hospitals within the jurisdiction and elected leadership.

Gov. Polis signed Executive Order D 2020 041 today extending the suspension of normal in-person instruction at all public and private elementary and secondary schools in the State until the end of the 2019-2020 school year. This order does not affect plans for the 2020-2021 school year.

To learn more about the Safer-at-Home phase of the pandemic and a tentative timeline, view the Governor’s presentation and a one-pager. View the Governor’s news conference.

DENVER (April 13, 2020) - Today, the Statewide Feeding Task Force working through the Unified Coordination Group announced Colorado received a $3 million delivery of infant supplies from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that includes:

• 8,200 cases of formula
• 23,260 packages of diapers
• 53,167 packages of diaper wipes

These essential supplies will go to families who are experiencing poverty and not able to find resources to meet their basic needs. The distribution of the supplies will be at 41 locations statewide at Colorado's food banks and family resource centers. These supplies will also be available to families enrolled in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and child care providers taking part in the Emergency Child Care Collaborative.

State agencies and other nonprofit partners across the state have been fielding urgent requests for formula, diapers and wipes from front line workers and child care providers offering emergency child care. This need arose both because there was difficulty finding supplies in retail stores, and because families are facing the economic impacts of being laid off from work, and cannot afford supplies even if they are available.

“We are proud to be leading the Statewide Feeding Task Force and are encouraged by the statewide coordination with partners to identify needs and collaborate to meet them,” said Colorado Department of Human Services Executive Director Michelle Barnes. “We are thrilled with the response we’ve received from FEMA and the quick distribution of these much-needed supplies. Together, we will get through this.”

Similar to toilet paper and hand sanitizer, panic buying has left stores and diaper banks empty of baby essentials. Colorado’s Family Resource Centers, Early Childhood Councils and local food pantries have had difficulty purchasing supplies from normal distributors, creating a dire situation for families. Some families may be resorting to changing diapers infrequently, which can cause infections and require medical attention, a situation that must be avoided in light of the medical community’s current focus on COVID-19. Likewise, the inability of parents to feed their babies has a health impact on the child and increases family stress and risk for child neglect.

The Feeding Task Force is coordinating the delivery of these supplies to food banks and family resource centers (FRCs) with support from the Unified Coordination Group (UCG). The delivery of supplies will be coordinated by the UCG logistics team to 34 FRCs across the state and subsequently to the emergency child care providers. FRCs are prepared to distribute these supplies directly to families in need utilizing existing local family support staff.

“Thank you to all the community partners in voicing this need, and to FEMA for working with Colorado and assisting in serving our families,” said Barnes. “In addition to the Emergency Child Care Collaborative and Colorado Crisis Services, this is one more way we are urgently working to support and meet the needs of Coloradans.”

For more information on how to access these resources, please visit the Office of Early Childhood’s website. Below is a list of distribution sites around the state.

• Arapahoe County Early Childhood Council
• Bright Futures of Children
• A Precious Child
• Catholic Charities of Central Colorado
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Pueblo
• Community Partnership Family Resource Center
• Connections 4 Kids
• Delta County Family Resource Center
• Denver Indian Family Resource Center
• Early Childhood Council Boulder County
• Estes Valley Investment in Childhood Success
• Families Forward Resource Center
• Family & Intercultural Resource Center
• Family Resource Center
• Family Resource Center Roaring Fork Schools
• Focus Points Family Resource Center
• Fremont County Family Center - Starpoint
• Gunnison-Hinsdale Early Childhood Council
• Hilltop Family Community Resources
• Huerfano Family Resource Center
• La Plata Family Centers Coalition
• Morgan County Family Center
• Mountain Family Center
• Prairie Family Center
• The Pinon Project
• Rural Communities Resource Center
• Sister Carmen Community Center
• Tri-County Family Care Center
• United Way Weld County
• West End Family Link Center
• Washington County Connections
• Food Bank of the Rockies
• Food Bank of the Rockies, Western Slope
• Care & Share Food Bank
• Weld Food Bank
• Lift Up
• Durango Food Bank
• La Puente's Food Bank Network of the San Luis Valley

The Statewide Feeding Task Force was created on March 9 to respond to COVID-19 feeding needs. Participating organizations in the Statewide Feeding Task Force include, but are not limited to: Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA), Colorado Department of Public Health Environment (CDPHE), Colorado Department of Education (CDE), Colorado Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOADs), FEMA, Food Banks, Blueprint to End Hunger, and other state and local food partners.

Jefferson County Public Health is providing this provisional guidance to golf courses to assist in ensuring the health and safety of the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Payment for Tee Times:

• Players must either book online or call the golf shop to reserve their tee times. The golf shop should be closed to customer traffic.
• The day of play, players should CALL the golf shop and pre-pay for their tee times.
• Walk-ups should not be allowed.

Rules for Play:

• All players should walk — no carts should be allowed for social distancing purposes. Players should provide their own pull carts.
• The driving range should either be closed or increase range slots to 9-feet wide to help with social distancing.
• The Clubhouse should only be open for restroom use.
• Tee time intervals should be spaced out to maintain better social distancing.
• Course Rangers should be monitoring golfers on the course to ensure social distancing and assisting with any player needs.
• All ball gathering devices should be removed from the practice areas.

Additional Modifications to Play:

• Rakes, drinking water, golf ball washers and water buckets should be removed from the course.
• Scorecards and pencils should be made available on the first tee.
• Clubhouse and on-course bathrooms should be disinfected and treated with extreme precaution in regards to cleanliness.
• The cups should be modified to allow players to hole their ball but eliminate the need to touch the flagstick or cup when retrieving the ball.
• Removing of flags should not be permitted for putting at any hole.
• Players should leave the course immediately after the round is over and maintain a safe 6-foot distance from all players at all times.

Effective at 5 p.m. on Thursday April 9, 2020, and until superseded or repealed, Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Shrader and Golden Police Chief Bill Kilpatrick will prohibit waterway activities on Clear Creek. These temporary restrictions apply to Clear Creek in unincorporated Jefferson County, as well as those portions of Clear Creek within the City of Golden, including Vanover Park.

This temporary restriction was made in response to the Stay at Home Order that makes it difficult for recreational users of the creek to adhere to the six-foot social distancing guideline. In addition, if a rescue were necessary, it would require law enforcement and fire departments to expend resources that are already facing challenges due to COVID-19.

Pursuant to C.R.S. § 33-13-111 and 2 CCR 405-2 #217, the Sheriff of Jefferson County and Golden Police Chief are prohibiting ALL USES in Clear Creek, including all single-chambered air inflated devices, such as belly boats, inner tubes, and single chambered rafts, “body surfers,” and swimming, as well as all vessels, kayaks, whitewater canoes, and multi-chambered river boards.

Under C.R.S. § 33-13-111 (3), the penalty for violating this restriction is a class 2 petty offense and will result in a fine of $100.00.

(JEFFERSON COUNTY, COLORADO) – These are stressful times and getting outdoors for exercise and peace of mind is how many Coloradoans cope. When people are stressed, anxious, and socially isolated – as we are right now due to the COVID-19 pandemic – access to parks, trails, and natural areas is more important than ever.

As more community members get outside, we’re seeing some concerning activities and potentially dangerous behaviors. We have every hope of keeping Jeffco parks and trails open for your enjoyment. To do this, we need your help.

We ask that you follow these requirements and recommendations for the greater good of our community and to allow park rangers, sheriff’s deputies, first responders and other parks team members to do their jobs safely and better serve you.

By following these essential health guidelines, you can reduce the strain on our public places and the risk of spreading the coronavirus:

• Do not leave your home unless you absolutely need to. This is especially important if you are sick. Until Colorado lifts its stay-at-home order, please practice social distancing and reduce the spread of COVID-19.

• Stay as close to home as possible. Try something in your own backyard, take a walk or bike ride around the block, or visit a neighborhood park (just leave any playground equipment untouched). Recreate only with people from your own household.

• Don’t take risks, including unnecessary driving. First responders rush to every emergency call and physical distancing is not possible. Asymptomatic people, both individuals and rescuers, can spread COVID-19 before they are aware of symptoms. If either the individual or a rescuer later becomes symptomatic or tests positive, that entire group of rescuers will have to self-isolate for at least 14 days. This leads to fewer and fewer rescue personnel available to respond to emergencies quickly.

• Avoid crowds. Parks and trailheads tend to be less busy early in the morning or late in the day.

• Check Jeffco Open Space parking availability at seven popular parks before you go by downloading the LotSpot app or checking our website at jeffco.us/openspace. Move on if a parking lot is full. Park only in designated spots or legally on the road shoulder.

• Wear a cloth face-covering AND stay 6 feet away from others who are not in your household. New research suggests up to one in four people with COVID-19 may not have symptoms and can spread the disease to others. Face coverings offer minimal protection for the wearer, but they make a big difference in helping to protect others if a person that is infected and doesn’t know it.

• Follow all Park Regulations that apply to the park or trail you are visiting. This includes keeping your dog on a leash at all times and picking up and properly disposing of dog waste (don’t leave it alongside the trail).

• Finally, be kind to others. Remember, we’re all in this together and tensions are high. Keep your distance, be courteous, and perhaps send a wave to your neighbors when you pass them on the sidewalk or trail. You never know how much they may need it.

On Friday, April 3, Governor Polis announced the Colorado Mask Campaign encouraging Coloradans to wear non-medical cloth face coverings when leaving the home for essential business.

When does the campaign start?

The campaign starts Friday April 3.

When does the campaign end?

We want every Coloradan to have a non-medical mask (e.g., scarf, bandana) by April 15. Everyone should wear a mask when outside of their home for necessary activities.

There is new evidence that people can spread the virus while being asymptomatic. Although staying at home is still the best way to prevent the spread, when you need to leave your house for necessities or if you work in a critical, non-medical field, wearing a bandana or non-medical mask made of cloth on your face can help prevent the spread to others if you have the virus. Because of the lack of medical-grade masks that are so crucial to protecting health care providers on the front lines, it is paramount that these types of masks not be sought after or used by the general public.

Are you doing this because of the President’s announcement?

We are doing this because it is the best thing for Colorado. This should help in our effort to increase physical distancing between people, and therefore reduce the spread of the disease. We all should be committed to do everything we can to not only keep vulnerable people safe, but help prevent our doctors and nurses from being overwhelmed by this pandemic.

Why is this campaign necessary? What is the science behind it?

The CDC has announced that up to 1 in 4 people infected with COVID are asymptomatic and spreading infected respiratory droplets. If people wear face coverings, it will help reduce spread.

Many people are not aware that they are spreading COVID-19 because they don’t have symptoms, or their symptoms are mild. A face covering helps lower the risk of spreading by someone who may be sick and not realize it.

Is wearing a mask encouraging or is the Governor requiring Coloradans wear it?

The Governor is encouraging all Coloradans to wear a cloth face coverings when going out in public. Please DO NOT go out and buy surgical masks - those are needed by our healthcare workers and first responders. If this recommendation leads to a run on surgical masks, taking them from those who need them, then we have hurt more than helped.

In the past, health experts have said that healthy people should not wear a mask? Why now? what has changed?

With up to 25% of people not knowing they may be carrying COVID-19, it is a good idea to have everyone wear a face covering to reduce the spread.

Face coverings are also a good reminder not to touch your face. Wearing a face covering will prevent you from touching your own face and make you aware of how often you are tempted to touch your nose and mouth.

Will this take away from health professionals that desperately need the supplies?

No, we are prioritizing N95 and surgical masks for front-line health care professionals only. We are recommending everyone else wear cloth face coverings.

What's the difference between a cloth mask and a N-95? Do they work the same, and if not, why should people wear a cloth mask?

N95 respirators look like a face mask but are designed to prevent transmission of at least 95% of droplets. They are manufactured with a special material and have a tight seal around the nose and mouth. Surgical masks are also made from a special material, but they don’t provide a seal around the nose and mouth, so they are not as effective as N95 masks. Both N95 and surgical masks must be reserved for health care workers and first responders to protect them when they come into contact with COVID-19 patients.

Cloth face coverings can be worn to reduce the spread of large droplets. They can help prevent “community spread” when people travel from their homes for necessary activities like grocery shopping.

If N-95 masks are better to prevent the spread, why not provide those for critical workers like grocery store workers?

There is a global shortage of N-95 masks. The state is working with urgency to acquire all the PPE and N-95 masks we need for all of our essential workers, beginning with front-line health care workers.

Is this campaign for the whole state?

Yes.

How will this be enforced?

We are asking Coloradans to do this voluntarily and to help their neighbors. As a community we must work together to protect our most vulnerable community members, sustain our health care system for the months ahead and slow the spread of COVID-19. It is good for all of us.

When you say people should wear for necessary activities what does that mean?

CDPHE has outlined a number of necessary activities that people can engage in outside their homes while the Governor’s Stay at Home Executive Order remains in place. These activities include things like grocery shopping, purchasing supplies for your residence, taking care of a family member or loved one at another location, and recreation close to home. You can find the complete description of Necessary Activities in Public Health Order 20-24 .

Remember, Social Distancing Requirements must be observed at all times, even when engaging in Necessary Activities.

Should people wear a mask to walk their dogs or workout?

We want to make it the norm to wear a face covering for the duration of the COVID-19 response, so please wear your non-medical mask whenever you leave your home.

Should kids wear a mask?

Yes, they should wear ones that fit their face. This is a great way to engage kids in helping on COVID. Have them decorate their masks, use fun fabrics, and encourage their friends to do it.

What about homeless people, will they be provided masks?

We are working with private partners who are donating at least 100,000 masks a week and will distribute those masks to homeless service providers who can help us get masks to every Coloradan, including people experiencing homelessness

What if I can’t afford a mask, where can I get one?

There is no need to buy a mask! You can repurpose a t-shirt, a dish towel, a bandana, or other fabric item into a mask that fits your face! There are great instructions online at coloradomaskproject.com.

Will businesses be required to provide masks for their employees?

We ask that all critical businesses ask their employees to wear face coverings, and we hope that they help provide them. We all must work together to protect our most vulnerable community members, sustain our health care system for the months ahead and slow the spread of COVID-19.

If someone is wearing a mask, do they still need to be 6ft apart?

Yes! This is a new PART of our infection reduction strategy. Maintaining 6ft of physical distance is still absolutely important!

Can I go out to buy fabric to make masks?
No, please don’t. There is no reason to purchase new supplies. Instead use fabric you already have. A t-shirt, a dish cloth, or a bandana is perfect. Staying home is still #1!

Are you doing this because of the President’s announcement?

We are doing this because it is the best thing for Colorado. This should help in our effort to increase physical distancing between people, and therefore reduce the spread of the disease. We all should be committed to do everything we can to not only keep vulnerable people safe, but help prevent our doctors and nurses from being overwhelmed by this pandemic.