Coronavirus: Woonsocket Mayor Declares State Of Emergency

WOONSOCKET, RI — Woonsocket Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt declared a state of emergency in the city Monday amid the coronavirus pandemic. All town offices will be closed to the public and all town activities have been canceled.

Baldelli-Hunt and Fire Chief Paul Shatraw issued a joint video statement on the coronavirus pandemic Monday in which Baldelli-Hunt announced the closing of the public library and senior center, while urging residents to stay home unless it's "critical" they go out.

"If you can stay home," Baldelli-Hunt said, "stay home."

Chief Shatraw said that first responders will be wearing masks and other personal protective equipment, and urged residents to call a health professional they believe they could be infected with the coronavirus — do not go directly to an emergency room or doctor's office.

Baldelli-Hunt said that while the senior center is closed, boxed lunches will be available for those in need and the Meals On Wheels program will continue. She also said Woonsocket Public Schools will be providing meals for students who need it during the closure that will last at least through the end of this week.

Baldelli-Hunt added that the schools are working on a "distant learning plan" that will allow for remote access to educational tools should the school closure last into multiple weeks. She said all schools are undergoing a "thorough cleaning" this week while closed.

In accordance with state guidelines, people should not be in groups of 25 or more, and Baldelli-Hunt asking that people not get together in groups of any kind, if possible.

"In order to prevent the spread of this virus it is important that people stay at home unless they have an appointment that is critical on a daily basis," Baldelli-Hunt said. "We want to keep our families safe. In order to keep our families safe, we must refrain from being in large crowds."

Chief Shartraw said those who are experiencing symptoms should contact their personal doctor. If you don't have a doctor, contact the COVID-19 hotline at 401-222-8022.

Don't miss updates about the latest coronavirus updates in Rhode Island as they are announced. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.

Read more:

• Coronavirus: Rhode Island Bishop Suspends All Masses
• 'These Measures Will Save Lives': Raimondo On Coronavirus
• Coronavirus In RI: 6 New Cases, Insurance Policies Changed
• Coronavirus In Rhode Island: General Assembly Closed For A Week
• National Grid Suspends Electric, Gas Shutoffs During Coronavirus
• One Of RI's New Coronavirus Cases Is Cranston West Student