Swindon and Wiltshire Police are urging people to stay at home over the Easter weekend as the majority of residents continue to listen to government advice to help protect the NHS.
Despite forecasts that temperatures could reach up to 24C over the weekend, Chief Constable Kier Pritchard has emphasised an extra effort was needed to keep people safe over Easter despite the vast majority of people across the county were adhering to the Government’s advice.
He said: “I know the past few weeks have been incredibly challenging for people, as
the financial, economic and social implications of these necessary restrictions hit
home.
“But it is important to reiterate how vital it is that we continue to follow the
Government’s guidelines and stay at home.
“I know that after weeks of social isolation people may start to feel fatigued, and the
temptation may be there this weekend to pop out for a picnic, or arrange to meet a
friend for a long walk.
“However, the best way that you can support our NHS and help keep both yourself
and everyone else safe, is to stay home and avoid all unnecessary travel.”
The current Government guidance is:
• Stay local – use open spaces near to your home where possible – do not
travel unnecessarily
• Only go outside alone or with members of your own household
• Keep at least 2 metres apart from anyone outside your household at all
times
• Take hygiene precautions when you are outside, and wash your hands as
soon as you are back indoors.
Debbie Stark, deputy director of Healthcare NHS and deputy centre director for
Public Health England, said: “This bank holiday weekend, it’s important that we all
continue to follow Government guidelines and stay at home to prevent the spread
of coronavirus.
“We want to reinforce that you should only be leaving the house to shop for basic
necessities and medicine, one form of exercise in your local area, such as a run or
walk, and medical needs or to help a vulnerable person.
“We know that this is going to be particularly challenging this weekend but doing so
will help to protect the NHS and save lives across the South West.”
