More safety measures are put in place as risk dial reaches into the red

The state of Nebraska, as a whole, is in the Orange phase of the COVID dial. That increase has prompted Gov. Pete Ricketts to issue new Directed Health Measures.

The most recent Directed Health Measure will remain in place until at least Nov. 30. It requires masks where staff and patrons are within six feet of each other for 15 minutes or more. The state is also requiring six feet of separation between parties at businesses, churches, restaurants/bars, gyms/ fitness clubs, and other gatherings such as weddings and funerals. Many private funerals are being held with plans for a public celebration of life to be held in the future.

Additionally, occupancy is being reduced to 25 percent at indoor venues such as theaters, arenas, and large event conference rooms and attendance at youth extracurricular sports is being limited.

Fan attendance at high school and college sporting events and other extra curricular activities is now limited to household members.

All spectators must also observe six feet of social distancing.

Anyone patronizing a bar or restaurant must also observe new limitations.

All patrons must be seated and cannot be at a table of more than eight people. All tables must be at least six feet apart. All indoor gatherings are limited to 25 percent capacity, while only eight people can be seated next to each other and six feet of social distancing is required between groups.

Masks are required for staff and patrons at salons, barbershops, massage therapy, bowling alleys, pool halls, body art establishments, and any other indoor businesses where staff and patrons are within six feet of each other for 15 consecutive minutes or more.

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