GREAT FALLS — The Blackfeet Tribal Business Council has declared a state of emergency for the Blackfeet Reservation in response to growing concerns over the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
This includes a reservation-wide curfew from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. for all residents. The only exceptions are for for people who are working during the curfew hours.
Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services said in a Facebook post: "We will be enforcing the curfew set forth by BTBC and anyone that's caught out that doesn't need to be out will be dealt with accordingly. Officers will be stopping every vehicle and person out."
Blackfeet tribal offices and programs will be closed until March 30th to allow for extensive cleaning of the facilities.
In addition, the emergency declaration states that all bars on the reservation will be closed during this time.
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- How the coronavirus closure will affect Great Falls Public Schools
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- CDC: Cancel or postpone all events with more than 50 people for next 8 weeks
- St. Patrick's Day parade and other events canceled due to coronavirus
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, you can take the following steps to protect yourself and your family.
- To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, you can take the following steps to protect yourself and your family.
- Stay home if you’re sick,
- Cover your cough and sneezes with the crook of your elbow or a tissue
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and wash your hands frequently
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe
- Call ahead to a healthcare professional if you develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you live in or have recently traveled to an area with ongoing spread. Tell your healthcare professional about your recent travel or contact.
According to the federal Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), as of March 14, there are 3,487 confirmed cases of COVID-19 across the nation. There have been 68 deaths. Click here for the latest information about COVID-19 at the CDC website.