(Ohio) – Amid new state mandates connected to COVID-19 precautions requiring us to stay home, what activities are deemed ‘essential’ and permitted?

According to the Director’s Order, the following are permitted activities amid statewide stay at home mandates.

• For health and safety. To engage in activities or perform tasks essential to their health and safety, or to the health and safety of their family or household members or persons who are unable or should not leave their home (including, but not limited to, pets), such as, by way of example only and without limitation, seeking emergency services, obtaining medical supplies or medication, or visiting a health care professional.
• For necessary supplies and services. To obtain necessary services or supplies for themselves and their family or household members or persons who are unable or should not leave their home, or to deliver those services or supplies to others, such as, by way of example only and without limitation, groceries and food, household consumer products, supplies they need to work from home, automobile supplies (including dealers, parts, supplies, repair and maintenance), and products necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences.
• For outdoor activity. To engage in outdoor activity, provided the individuals comply with Social Distancing Requirements. Activities include those such as, by way of example and without limitation, walking, hiking, running, or biking. Individuals may go to public parks and open outdoor recreation areas. However, public access playgrounds may increase the spread of COVID19, and therefore shall be closed.
• For certain types of work. To perform work providing essential products and services at Essential Businesses or Operations (includes Healthcare and Public Health Operations, Human Services Operations, Essential Governmental Functions, and Essential Infrastructure. See the last few pages of the Director’s order for more industries deemed essential) or to otherwise cany out activities specifically permitted in this Order, including Minimum Basic Operations.
• To take care of others. To care for a family member, friend, or pet in another household, and to transport family members, friends, or pets as allowed by this Order. This includes attending weddings and funerals.