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Remain calm, ignore 'lockdown, checkpoint' rumors, don't panic buy

Sheriff Lowell Griffin urges residents to remain calm, use common sense and refrain from panic buying as they live under stay-at-home orders.

Sheriff Lowell Griffin is urging residents to remain calm, use common sense and ignore unfounded rumors as they live under COVID-19 stay-at-home orders imposed Friday by the Henderson County Board of Commissioners and Gov. Roy Cooper.


“The main concern today is not only stopping the spread of the virus but we have to make sure our health care providers don’t get overrun to the point that people can’t get treatment," Griffin says in a 2½-minute statement on posted YouTube. "I continue to plead with you to remain calm and comply with this order and I want to dispel of a few rumors.
“Some of the rumors we’ve heard revolve around us locking down the county and shutting down roads. Both orders include that there’s to be no gatherings of 10 or more people and state that grocery stores will remain open. Our grocers have strong supply and continue to work tirelessly to keep you supplied. There is simply no need to panic buy. Hardware stores will remain open, drug stores will remain open. Walmart, convenience stores, gas stations, post offices and banks are just a few of the businesses that will continue to operate. It’s a common sense order.” Click here to read the order and a memorandum from the director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency on identifying essential workers and industries during the COVID-19 response.

“We are not going to set up checkpoints or lock down roads concerning these orders. But we are counting on you to make common sense decisions as we continue to navigate these unchartered waters. I ask that you continue to lead a healthy lifestyle, practice the recommended social distancing as you spend time outside and take advantage of this beautiful weather.”