I'm not so sure that an employer can direct people's activities when they are not at work, but this little bit of information is interesting. From an email I got, "[speaking about adult children] They both got the word from their respective bosses that no one better come down with COVID following Thanksgiving, or …. (you fill in the blank). I was a little surprised that their work places were taking a stand but I’m glad they are."
I don't see how a post Thanksgiving Day coronavirus calamity can be avoided. We are dealing with people's perception of risk ("it won't happen to me") and I've seen several news stories about how people are trying to do it safer, outdoor dining, everyone wearing masks, everyone being tested for COVID-19 before coming to dinner.
The only thing I do know is this: Tell your college student you love them, but change the locks on the door should they attempt to come home.
Eric Holdeman is a contributing writer for Emergency Management magazine and is the former director of the King County, Wash., Office of Emergency Management.
