Local communities and those around the state have been hopping in their vehicles for some social interaction during the COVID-19 outbreak, and Adair and Guthrie counties’ emergency operation center manager says that’s okay, but within reason.

Governor Kim Reynolds’ most recent state public health emergency proclamation prohibits parades, though it states that a gathering of people inside parked cars, trucks, or other enclosed motor vehicles doesn’t constitute a gathering of more than 10 people, if no more than 10 people are inside each vehicle, all people remain inside the vehicle at all times, and the vehicle remains closed with all windows, sunroofs, and convertibles closed.

With that considered, Adair and Guthrie County Emergency Management Coordinator Bob Kempf says people can “scoop the loop,” but they need to do it responsibly, “I mean we can all see examples on Facebook of kids standing up through sunroofs, windows that are down, people hanging out waving, stuff like that. The rule says that the windows, the sunroofs need to stay up. You’re not supposed to get out of your vehicle, so getting out of your vehicle and standing in front of it to watch people go by is not allowed.”

Kempf adds that his agency and public health are working with local religious organizations to find a way to host Easter services while abiding by the proclamation. Law enforcement can charge those who violate the Governor’s social distancing regulations, which could come with a fine of up to $250. Kempf encourages residents to be socially responsible and not to burden local peace officers by trying to work around COVID-19 laws.