Two towns teetering on the edge of local lockdown have announced new emergency measures to tackle oubtreaks of coronavirus.
Blackburn with Darwen Council told residents only two people can now visit another person at home and face coverings should be worn in public with immediate effect.
It has also urged anyone to get tested for COVID-19 – even if they have no symptoms.
Elsewhere in England, face coverings are still optional in some public places like shops – although they will become mandatory on Friday 24 July – and groups of six can meet outside at a friend's home in their garden.
Blackburn had 47 cases of the virus per 100,000 people in the week up to 11 July, an increase from 31.6 cases per 100,000 the previous week.
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It is third on the list of highest weekly rates, behind Leicester, which has a rate of 118.2 cases per 100,000 and is subject to a local lockdown, and nearby Pendle, with a rate of 76.6.
Dominic Harrison, the Lancashire council's director of public health, called for people only to bump elbows with anyone outside of their immediate family, instead of shaking hands or hugging.
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And he said if infection rates continue to rise, further restrictions may be reimposed.
"These steps will help and we are appealing to everyone in Blackburn with Darwen to follow them to protect themselves and their loved ones," Mr Harrison told residents on Tuesday.
"If we don't, a local lockdown, like in Leicester, becomes a very real possibility.
"The council is working with the NHS and the wider community on this, it's up to us all to help each other stick to the advice that's been given.
"We can only avoid further lockdown measures if we work together."
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