Ontario Government Declares an Emergency
Escalating COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations, and fears for the spread of COVID variants have stimulated increased restrictive measures from the Ontario government. It is upsetting that a substantial minority of people are still not following orders and protective guidelines.
Central to the new orders are that we should all stay at home, only going out for necessities. Some exceptions include obtaining food, medical care, banking, attending some schooling, participating in outdoor exercises and doing work that cannot be performed remotely.
Retail stores are largely closed or allow only curbside pickup — usually pre ordered. Stores and businesses which remain open and allow in person shopping include food, pharmacy, beer wine and spirits. Restaurants can open for take-out, drive-through and delivery only.
Outdoor exercise continues to be allowed and encouraged as an aid to mental health. Downhill ski slopes are closed but cross-country skiing and ice rinks are open. In Mono masks are required on our ice rinks which are open until 8:00 PM. Mono trails in parks are also open.
Face masks continue to be required for all indoor contacts and for outdoor contacts if physical distancing is not possible.
Police and Provincial Offence Officers are authorized to issue tickets for non-compliance. Fines are $750.
Let’s all cooperate and get this pandemic under control.