Tinker Air Force Base tightens COVID-19 guidelines

  • Published
  • By Mark Hybers
  • 72nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

With the continued rise in COVID-19 cases in the state and surrounding counties, the installation commander has implemented additional policy and tighter restrictions for on-base gatherings and events.

“The health and safety of Tinker members remains our highest priority,” said Tinker Installation Commander, Col. Paul Filcek. “We cannot forget that we must balance safety with the national defense missions we accomplish every day.”

In an effort to continue the mission and maintain the health and welfare of all members at Team Tinker, the following changes will take effect:

1. Effective immediately, masks will be worn in all public non-duty indoor areas regardless of distancing.

2. Effective 17 Oct 20, all installation dining establishments will be take-out only.

3. Installation public gathering policy has been updated with additional mitigations.

4. Effective 17 Oct 20, the Gerrity Fitness Center will be limited to active duty/reserve military and civilian employees.

5. The Trusted Traveler program remains suspended; the VCC remains open 24/7.

6. Active duty members who are classified as “contacts” of COVID-19 positive patients will be placed on quarters in the Aeromedical Service Information System (ASIMS).

7. At Child Development Centers, parents/guardians will continue to be denied entry, will drop children at the ECP, and children will be screened and temperature checked.

8. Facilities will continue or resume single-point-entry with clear signage displaying the Public Health questionnaire and have hand sanitizer available.

There are some changes to policies already in effect as well. Attendees of indoor events, such as commander’s calls will be screened prior to attendance. At smaller venues with designed seating of less than 20, masks will be worn for the duration of the event regardless of distancing.

“More than 98 percent of Team Tinker lives and plays off base,” said Filcek. “So my hope is we can continue to partner with our surrounding communities on mitigation efforts and best practices to ensure the safety of all.”

Filcek said it’s imperative that every member of Team Tinker maintain discipline on and off duty to protect themselves, their teammates and the mission. Also, remember to do your part and wash your hands often, maintain social distances when able, and wear masks any time distancing is not possible.