Like most of the country, cases of COVID-19 in Omaha are on the rise. Each day, the city is seeing more cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. This increase in cases has caused concern among Omaha schools. With things getting worse rather than better, it is important now more than ever for residents to follow the COVID guidelines set by the state.
Q: What Is Omaha’s Reopening Plan?
A: Currently, Omaha is in phase 3.1. This phase began on October 21, 2020 and is set to expire on November 30, 2020. There are no current plans to move into a new phase on that day. However, the ability to reopen will depend on the number of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths at the end of November. According to officials, it is impossible to make further plans for reopening when there is no way of knowing is the cases will have gone up or down by then.
Q: Are Masks Mandatory In Omaha?
Yes. Masks have been mandatory on Omaha since the order went into effect on August 11, 2020, and it will extend until November 24, 2020. Residents must wear masks in any indoor public space. Masks are not required outdoors unless it is impossible to social distance.
Q: Are Restaurants Open In Omaha?
A: Yes, restaurants are open, but guidelines must be followed. Governor Pete Ricketts announced that that beginning October 21, 2020, there would be new guidelines for residents to follow due to the recent surge in cases.
- Restaurants can operate at 50 percent capacity.
- Patrons must remain seated unless they are placing an order, playing games or using the restroom.
- Parties are limited to 8 people per table. If a party of more than 8 enters the restaurant, they will need to split to multiple tables.
- Tables must be spaced at least six feet apart.
- Masks must be worn by all patrons unless they are eating or drinking. Masks must be worn by staff members at all times.
Q: Are Gyms Open In Omaha?
A: Yes, gyms are open but staff and members must follow strict guidelines.
- Members and staff must have a fever screening upon arrival
- All members must remain six feet apart.
- Equipment must be placed six feet apart.
- Masks aren’t necessary unless social distancing is impossible.
- Machines must be cleaned and sanitized after each use.
- Gyms can operate at 50 percent occupancy.
Q: What Businesses and Services Are Open In Omaha?
A: With the city in phase 3.1 of reopening, all businesses and services have reopened. All business owners have been reminded to follow safety guidelines established by the state According to Governor Ricketts, as long as businesses follow the set guidelines, things will go forward rather than backwards.
Q: What Does Omaha Define As “Essential Business” During COVID?
A: At the beginning of the pandemic, all non-essential businesses were closed. The ones deemed essential were allowed to remain open and include:
- Hospitals and healthcare centers
- Grocery stores
- Convenience stores
- Liquor stores
- Hardware stores
- Pet supply stores
- Gas stations
- Banks
- Food and beverage delivery
- Restaurants for pickup, delivery, and drive-thru service only
- Utility companies
- Government workers
- Contractors
Q: Are Large Gatherings Allowed In Omaha?
A: Yes, gatherings are allowed but the set guidelines must be followed.
- Residential gatherings cannot exceed eight people.
- Gatherings in an indoor public venue are limited to 50 percent of capacity. Large venues cannot exceed 10,000 people
- Outdoor venues can operate at 100 percent occupancy; but cannot exceed 10,000 people.
- Masks must be worn at all indoor gatherings.
- Masks are no necessary at outdoor gatherings as long as social distancing is possible.
Q: How To Keep Business Going During COVID?
A: In order for businesses to remain open, strict guidelines need to be followed. These include:
- Business owners must require staff and customers to wear masks
- Customers should stay six feet apart.
- Signs should be posted to remind customers to wear masks and social distance.
- Stickers should be placed on the floor to help customers properly social distance.
- Business owners must follow the maximum occupancy requirements set by the state.
- The business should be cleaned and sanitized on a regular basis.
Enviro-Master of Raleigh can help businesses re-open and stay safe with our COVID cleaning service and bathroom cleaning service. Contact us today to learn more
