Important information if you are experiencing homelessness and currently living/sleeping in the out-of-doors.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COVID-19

Safety considerations:

• Wash your hands multiple times per day. If you cannot wash your hands, use hand sanitizer if it is available.
• Avoid crowds/large groups of people. It is recommended that people social distance and do not participate in groups larger than ten (10) people.
• Maintain a distance of six feet with other people.
• If you sneeze or cough, aim your mouth at your arm pit.
• Washing your hands and social distancing is the best way to stay healthy!

If you are worried or fearful that you may have the virus, ask yourself these questions:

• Have I had direct contact with someone who has been diagnosed with the Corona Virus/Covid-19? OR
• Am I experiencing symptoms? In the last two weeks, have I had a fever or felt feverish, a new or changed cough, or new or increased shortness of breath. OR
• Have you traveled recently outside the United States?

If you can answer yes to any of the above three questions, call the 24/7 COVID-19 Hotline at 954-412-7300.  Or call 911.  Or make your way to the nearest hospital.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SLEEPING SAFELY IN THE OUT-OF-DOORS

• There is safety in numbers. Sleep and travel in small groups (less than ten).
• Seek out well-lit places – remain in well-lit places to avoid danger.
• Trust your “Spidery” sense. If something does not feel right, then trust your gut and seek out a public place.  Be aware of your surroundings.
• Change patterns and times of activities. Do not be predictable, change your routine frequently.  Avoid “check day” at the ATM if possible.  Use different ATM’s, use indoor ATM’s.
• Be aware of your location/address, you may need to call 911 and give them your location.
• Do not trespass and sleep on private property. FYI – Public property is for all citizens, both homeless and housed.

When in trouble and if you feel like you are in danger:

• If you have a whistle, blow your whistle – yell for help – make as much noise as possible.
• Call 911, Run!
• If you become a victim of crime, call 911 immediately and file a report with law enforcement.

TaskForce 03/2020