Pentland MSP Urges People To "Stay Local" When Exercising
MSP Gordon MacDonald has urged residents in Edinburgh to 'stay local' when exercising and walking dogs, and avoid any unnecessary travel that could help spread coronavirus.
Official advice from the Scottish and UK governments warns that people should not be driving somewhere with the intent of doing exercise or walking their dog – with new powers granted to police to enforce these regulations.
To protect yourself and others from illness and save lives, people in Edinburgh should also avoid driving to beauty spots such as the Pentlands and Harlaw and Threipmuir Reservoir.
Edinburgh Pentlands MSP Gordon MacDonald said, "Of course, exercise is extremely important for people’s physical and mental wellbeing, so it's important to note that people in Edinburgh can leave their homes for exercise once a day, with members of their own household.
"However, you should only be outside for a reasonable purpose – buying food or essential household or medical supplies; travelling to or carrying out essential work; exercising once a day; or providing care or assistance to others.
"People in Edinburgh should make use of gardens - if they can - and stay local when exercising or walking dogs, to ensure that we stop the spread of coronavirus.
"This is about saving lives and protecting our NHS. We all recognise how unusual and difficult these regulations are, and the Scottish Government will act to remove these restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so."
Please use the following guidance in order to stay safe:
Stay local and use open spaces near to your home where possible
Do not travel unnecessarily
You should only go outside alone or with members of your own household
Keep at least 2 metres apart from anyone outside your household at all times
Gatherings of more than two in parks or other public spaces have been banned and the police will enforce this
If you have a garden, make use of the space for exercise and fresh air
Take hygiene precautions when you are outside, and wash your hands as soon as you are back indoors
