Today, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and other health experts, the Ontario government announced strengthening enforcement of the province’s Stay-at-Home order while imposing new travel restrictions and further strengthening public health measures. These urgent actions aim to stop the rapid growth in COVID-19 case rates and relieve mounting pressures on the province’s health care system. As a result, the Town is closing outdoor amenities such as playgrounds and sports fields.

Indoor Town facilities remain closed as part of previous COVID-19 response efforts, however, vaccination clinics scheduled at the Meridian Community Centre for April 19 and 20 remain available. Outdoor amenities will be closed effective 12:01 a.m. April 17. These amenities include playgrounds and equipment, the Isaac Riehl skate park, sports fields, and courts.

Town parks and trails remain open for passive use only, such as walking, jogging, or cycling. Gatherings, sports, or loitering are prohibited. Under Provincial orders, outdoor gatherings are restricted to members of your own household. Individuals living alone may choose to bubble with one other household exclusively.

For more information on the impacts of COVID-19 on Town programs and services, please visit www.pelham.ca/covid19.

Residents should only leave their house for essential purposes such as accessing food and pharmacies, exercise, medical appointments, vaccine appointments, and essential work that cannot be done remotely.

Residents can help slow the spread of COVID-19 by:

• Staying home if sick
• Getting tested if displaying symptoms
• Frequently cleaning hands
• Getting the vaccine when available
• Covering coughs or sneezes
• Wearing a mask in public
• Practicing physical distancing of two metres
• Avoiding sharing of personal items
• Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces

For more information on COVID-19-related Public Health measures, vaccinations, business resources, and other resources, visit niagararegion.ca/COVID19.