Residents adapt to state-wide order to stay home
MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) Empty streets and locked doors are now the new normal across California.
Many people only leave their homes to stock up at the grocery story. "I didn't want to come out, but we needed some water. I came to Safeway. They have a water dispensary outside the store," said Michael Hawkins in Monterey.
Governor Gavin Newsom issueD a state-wide order to stay home, Thursday. Newsom called for the closure of all non-essential businesses and urged residents to only leave their homes if absolutely necessary.
"I'm going to go home and shelter down," said Hawkins.
"We abide by the quarantine, shelter in place," said Jackie Adams in Monterey.
The order comes on the heels of an estimated 1,200 cases of COVID-19 confirmed across the state.
As of Saturday, Monterey County reports 11 cases of COVID-19. Santa Cruz County reports 15 cases. San Benito County reports 2 cases.
"I wouldn't want to be in the position where I'm carrying the virus. I'm personally not so afraid of getting the virus. I just don't want to pass it on to someone else," said Adams.
The virus isn't stopping all from enjoying their weekend. Point Lobos had a full parking lot, Saturday.
Fernando Boom said he traveled from San Francisco to hike and see the Monterey Bay.
"I think we are safer here than we would be in San Francisco. They recommended to get fresh air, be outdoors and exercise," said Boom.
Police are now having to enforce the new regulations.
Newsom said social pressure will encourage people to do the right thing. "Maybe you should reconsider being out there on the beach or being 22 strong at a park. It's time for all of us to recognize as individuals, and as a community, we need to do more to meet this moment," said Newsom.
