Coming out of hibernation: a few things to consider when reopening your business

We have collectively gone through what we hope to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience in which many of us have been working remotely, trying to keep our children from permanently injuring themselves, and preparing for a trip to Trader Joe’s as if we were part of a Navy SEAL team. Covid-19 has affected us in different ways, especially if we’ve lost a close relative or friend or contracted a severe case of the virus ourselves. The Midwest is seeing some improvement in terms of a lower daily number of new cases and deaths, but certain pockets continue to spike, and the crisis is far from over. As we gradually return to a hybrid normal, between the way it was before the coronavirus and the way it has been for the past few months, we must remain vigilant in our common-sense efforts to continue on a path where the outbreak is simply a bad memory.

Stay-at-home orders in flux

The current state of stay-at-home orders is a hodgepodge. Wisconsin no longer has a statewide stay-at-home order, and local municipalities have adopted different variations. Illinois’ stay-at-home order is set to expire, but will likely be extended to some degree. Indiana has adopted five stages to get the state back on track. You’ll need to constantly monitor your local and state requirements because they’re in flux.

What to do if your business can reopen