鈥淭hrough the news, we have witnessed the COVID-19 virus run rampant in other countries,鈥� stated Cliff Prestie, Town of Preeceville Emergency Measures Officer.
鈥淲e have watched from afar the quarantine measures put in place by different countries to slow the spread of this virus. Now the realization of this horrible virus in our communities is starting to become a reality. We as a community must heed the warnings and learn from the countries that have dealt with this issue prior to us," Prestie said.
The Province has passed certain restrictions on people and听business听which include the following:
- People returning from international travel must go into self-isolation for two weeks.
- People living in the same home as someone who has COVID-19 must self-isolate and follow the directions of public health.
- Public gatherings of more than 10 people are banned.
- Public and private elementary and secondary schools were ordered closed.
- Recreation and entertainment facilities were ordered closed.
- Nightclubs, bars, lounges and restaurants were ordered closed (restaurants can continue with takeout and delivery).
- Personal services were ordered closed.
- Dental, optometry, chiropractic, registered massage therapy and podiatry clinics are only permitted to perform non-elective procedures.
- Visits to long-term care homes, hospitals, personal care homes and group homes are restricted to family visiting for compassionate reasons.
- Daycares are limited to eight children or eight children per room.
(Above list of restrictions is continuously being updated at under the link Public health orders.)
鈥淲e have a responsibility to the people in our community to adhere to the restrictions mandated by the government. For the few that still do not feel the need to adhere to the regulations, the federal government has given the Heath Authority and the RCMP powers to investigate, fine and arrest people that are not following the regulations and putting others at risk,鈥� stated Prestie.
鈥淏usinesses in our community have adjusted to these restrictions to help keep the flow of goods for our households. Let鈥檚 be sure to practice physical distancing of two metres.听 Some businesses are providing free delivery so take advantage of that service. By minimizing the number of people in our businesses, it will help ensure the safety of the employees. These workers are providing essential services by keeping the shelves stocked and the doors open for business.
鈥淥ther businesses are open for takeout but need to be called prior to visiting. We need to respect the restrictions that have been put forward on the federal, provincial, and local levels to ensure the safety of our friends, family and community members,鈥� continued Prestie.
鈥淚f someone is feeling unwell and is concerned about having the COVID-19 virus, they should refer to the online self-assessment tool for screening. If people do not have access to the online tool they must call 811, which is available 24/7.听 This service will help assess and direct you to a testing centre if required. If you are calling for health reasons please notify them if you are having flu-like symptoms, so they can take the proper steps to protect themselves.
鈥淩emember to wash hands, disinfect common touch areas, and practice physical distancing. Stay well and safe,鈥� Prestie concluded.
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