People in Finland are wondering what is in store if the Finnish government's proposed societal lockdown for areas where the coronavirus epidemic is raging fiercest (effectively the Helsinki region and Turku at present) is approved by Parliament.
The government has issued a list of regulations in its legislative draft, but in an effort to make them more user-friendly, Yle has interpreted the rules in a question-and-answer format.
As the proposed restrictions have not yet been approved by MPs, they could still change. When, exactly, the rules would go into effect — as well as their planned duration — also remains unknown.
Outdoor activities and leisure
Who can you meet indoors and at home?
In general, people living in the locked-down regions will only be permitted to meet members of their own household in indoor situations. However, those in "established relationships" who do not live in the same household will be able to meet. Another exception includes caring for a person with disabilities or the elderly.
Can I have a party?
Kind of. As written, the rules say that only people from your household would actually be permitted to attend. In other words, the only ones who could join in the party are those who live in the same home.
Can I travel to a rented cottage in Lapland or somewhere else in Finland?
People can only travel to cottages or leisure homes if they, or someone from the same household, own them or have already rented them for an extended period.
Renting a cottage for a week does not qualify for the exception. Only people from the same household are allowed to visit the cottage or leisure home.
Can I go for a walk or exercise outdoors?
Yes, exercising outdoors and going for a walk are permitted under the regulations. But those in restricted areas should not travel outside those areas.
With whom can I meet outdoors, and where?
As mentioned, people from the same household can meet outdoors together. It will also be permitted to meet with up to two others from another household, meaning that three people can meet outside while maintaining a two metre distance from each other.
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Is it OK to take a taxi to the station and take a train to another area?
People will not be allowed to travel beyond the regions affected by the heightened restrictions, except to go to leisure homes (see entry on cottage visit rules).
Additionally, for example, people from affected areas will not be permitted to stay at hotels.
All Finnish citizens and those resident in Finland are permitted to leave and enter the country during the lockdown period. Meanwhile, foreign visitors may only enter the country for essential reasons, but will be able to leave the country.
The Finnish Border Guard has published an extensive guide about the rules for citizens of various countries.
Can I pick up friends in my car if we're going for a walk?
Unless safe distances can be maintained during such a scenario, such situations should be avoided. Keep in mind that people are not allowed to leave regions affected by the lockdown orders.
Can I go to places of worship?
In the traditional sense, no. People in affected areas will not be permitted to gather for religious gatherings. Going to a place of worship will only be allowed on an individual basis, such as to meet with a clergy member on your own.
Shopping and errands
Can I go to the grocery store?
Yes. As foods are considered essential items, it is permitted.
Can I go to alcohol retailer Alko?
As alcoholic drinks are deemed to be foods, yes you can.
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Can I buy cigarettes at the kiosk, make-up in shops or plants at the garden centre?
These items are not considered foods nor essential items, so no. But one will be able to buy such items if they're available in grocery stores.
Can I go to the hairdresser or beauty salon?
As haircuts, manicures and similar services are not considered necessities, the answer is no.
What about takeaway food?
You can pick up restaurant food but it must be ordered in advance. Home delivery of meals is also an option, as food couriers are carrying out their jobs, so it is allowed.
What happens if a home appliance breaks, can I go get parts or a replacement?
Visits to hardware stores are OK if an essential appliance has broken or needs a replacement part, if the matter cannot be taken care of later.
Children and relatives
People 13 years of age or younger (born in 2008 or later) are allowed to play outdoors with other kids. Children are also permitted to move about outside to take part in hobbies. A guardian, older sibling or other relevant person is allowed to monitor the child or children, taking into account safe distancing measures.
Can kids from divorced families travel to other regions or homes to meet their parents?
Children will be allowed to travel between their parents' homes as arranged, for example every two weeks. An adult who lives with the child (or children) may escort them to another home or residence without breaching the temporary restrictions.
Who is considered a close relative? Who's allowed to care for others and what about funerals?
It will be permitted to help and support children, even if the person helping isn't a blood relative. Grandparents may also take care of their grandkids.
If a close relative becomes ill, you can help them.
Additionally, it will be permitted to arrange and attend funerals.
Property and vehicle maintenance
Will it be OK to maintain properties, a building or vehicle?
Yes. It will be possible to visit a property or building in another location. Buildings, vehicles and the like may be serviced or repaired, according to the draft version of the rules.
Is moving house permitted during the lockdown?
Moving from one residence to the same or another region is permitted. It remained unclear on 26 March whether friends or relatives would be allowed to help people move. However, hiring workers from a moving company will be permitted.