Effective Monday, 18 May 2020, Dover AFB is transitioning into PHASE-1 of our “Reopen the Base” plan. We will graduate from “Significantly Reduced Manning” to just “Reduced Manning,” as defined by your unit commanders. I am thankful for your continued strict adherence to social distancing, face covering requirements and hygiene measures, all of which have enabled local conditions that allow us to take this prudent step. During PHASE-1, those who are deemed “at risk” or live with someone “at risk” will need to continue to telework. In general, you will begin to see a few more people around base, as many who were exclusively teleworking will now be coming into work part of the time. Most units will adopt or continue the practice of dividing their manpower into different teams or shifts. The concept of “teaming” minimizes the number of potential exposures, as Airmen avoid contact with others from another team or shift.
Before going further, let’s review the topics that are not changing in PHASE-1. The following policies remain in place:
- HPCON CHARLIE
- Dover AFB Public Health Emergency
- Shelter in Place Order
- Travel Restrictions (including Dover’s Leave and Pass Policy)
- Stop Movement
- Suspension of Trusted Traveler program
- Civilian Employees Weather and Safety Leave Self-Certification Guidelines
Good news. For military members, PHASE-1 includes a limited reopening of our base fitness center and barbershop. Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard members will have access to the gym for one hour three times a week, and will sign up for a time slot using Appointments Plus at the following link: https://booknow.appointment-plus.com/6brmtd82/. The barbershop will offer services to active-duty members by appointment only and can be reached at (302) 734-1747. Patrons of both the gym and barbershop will be required to adhere to strict social distancing and wear face coverings, when appropriate. See attached for additional information on elements of PHASE-1 and modifications of the existing Shelter in Place Order.
It is more important than ever as we transition into PHASE-1 that we all do our part to prevent a second wave of the pandemic from hitting our base community. Gatherings will be limited to 10 people or fewer with strict physical distancing measures practiced. Use of cloth face coverings are mandatory when physical distancing cannot be maintained, including the commissary, exchange, shoppette, MPF, finance, and medical clinic. Enhanced workplace cleaning is also mandatory with emphasis on common use areas and equipment sanitation at the end of each use and shift.
As we take deliberate steps to reopen our base, I look forward to taking them together, one step at a time. The ultimate goal is to fully reopen our base, striving to stay aligned with our state, preserving our fighting force, and being aware of our shared obligation to protect those most “at-risk”.