COVID-19 Update

Please visit huntsville.ca/covid19 for an updated list of changes and impacts during the pandemic.

When out in public, please continue, to:

• Maintain physical distancing of 2 metres from anyone not in your household
• Wash hands and high touch areas frequently
• Face masks or coverings are required in all public indoor spaces within Simcoe-Muskoka. For more info see SMDHU
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue or sleeve
• Monitor your health for symptoms and stay home if you feel ill

The Town will continue to evaluate impact on service and facilities during COVID-19.

Masks and face coverings

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit announced in a July 7^th press release that face coverings (i.e. non-medical mask) will be required in all indoor premises of businesses, organizations and on public transit systems in Simcoe Muskoka starting Monday July 13, 2020.

Why should I wear a mask in an indoor public space?

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has issued these instructions under the authority of the provincial Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) in an effort to prevent the possible spread of COVID-19.

Not only will it help to protect you, but it will help to prevent those who are most vulnerable. By working together, we can help prevent a resurgence of cases.

How do businesses and organizations know what the health unit instructions are?

The health unit has prepared instructions for businesses and organizations under the EMCPA, with the expectation that they use their “best efforts” requiring the public to wear face coverings, including the use of signs and verbal reminders.

Instructions for owners or operators of all businesses, organizations and public transit services in Simcoe Muskoka can be found on the Partners and Municipalities page of simcoemuskokahealth.org

What would be considered a face covering that I can use?

A face covering means a medical or non-medical mask or other face coverings such as a bandana, scarf or cloth that covers the mouth and nose.

How do I find a face mask or covering?

Many local businesses have been selling face masks or coverings. You can also use a bandana, scarf or cloth that covers the mouth and nose.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit website also has “How-To” instructions on how to sew your own.

What do I do if someone enters my business and refuses to wear a face mask or covering?

As stated by the Health Unit, “If a person refuses to wear a mask please note that there is no requirement, that a business turn away a customer who is not wearing a face covering.

In addition, there are certain exemptions including age, religious practices and medical circumstances that may apply. No proof of exemption is required.”

In all public settings indoors or outdoors, please continue to…

• Maintain physical distancing of two metres from others
• Stay home if ill and get tested for COVID-19
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer