Region's governors urge everyone to think about safety during holidays

A bipartisan group of governors are urging everyone to think safety during the holiday season.

The governors urge everyone to wear a face mask, to follow the advice of medical experts and to help do their part of eradicate COVID-19.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers joined together in a social media video to encourage everyone across the region to remain safe during the holiday season.

“This may be the most difficult time yet in our struggle with COVID-19, especially with the holidays approaching,” the governors’ message said.

“Until the vaccine is available to everyone and until we eradicate this virus once and for all, we must continue working to protect one another.

“The science is settled: The best way we can protect our frontline workers and slow the spread of this virus is to double down on mask wearing, social distancing, and washing hands frequently. 

“If you are planning to travel or gather with other households for the holidays...we urge you to reconsider. 

“Just one infection can cause an outbreak in your community, which could overwhelm our hospitals and put you and your loved ones at risk. 

“We owe it to the brave men and women serving on the front lines of this pandemic to do our part and be smart this holiday season.”

This is the second time this bipartisan group of governors has joined forces in the past month to encourage people in their region to do their part to protect their families, frontline workers and small businesses. 

They released a similar video prior to Thanksgiving urging families to reconsider holiday travel.