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24-Hour Lock-Down Imposed On San Francisco For 3 Weeks

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Cities are taking major precautions amidst the coronavirus crisis, and it looks San Francisco just took a big step to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

San Francisco is following in Italy’s footsteps, and the city’s Mayor is imposing a 24-hour lockdown for three weeks where people will not be allowed to leave their homes unless it is for groceries or healthcare. It will go into effect midnight Tuesday.

“We know these measures will significantly disrupt people’s day to day lives, but they are absolutely necessary,” Breed said in a statement. “This is going to be a defining moment for our City and we all have a responsibility to do our part to protect our neighbors and slow the spread of this virus by staying at home unless it is absolutely essential to go outside. I want to encourage everyone to remain calm and emphasize that all essential needs will continue to be met. San Francisco has overcome big challenges before and we will do it again, together.”

Mayor London Breed called the measure a “defining moment” for the U.S. in response to the virus and residents will only be permitted to leave their homes for essential groceries or for doctor’s appointments, and it will last at least three weeks until April 7. People outside of households are also advised to stay six feet away from each other.

The public has also been advised to stay at home unless their job falls into a list of essential businesses, including health care operations, grocery stores, shelters, media outlets, gas stations and banks. Restaurants can only operate for takeout or delivery, no dining in.

Police Chief Bill Scott said that violations of the order are punishable by a misdemeanor, however “that is an absolute last resort.”