COVID-19 Response Framework - Red-CONTROL Zone - February 16

Effective February 16th, the Simcoe Muskoka Health Unit catchment area transitions to the Red-CONTROL Zone. The following public health measures take effect on February 16, 2021 at 12:01 a.m.:

• Outdoor organized public gatherings and social gatherings are further restricted to a limit of twenty-five people with limited exceptions. 
• Individuals are required to wear a mask or face covering in the indoor areas of businesses or organizations that are open. Wearing a mask or face covering is now recommended outdoors when you can't physically distance more than two metres.  
• For retail, there are new capacity limits in place.
  • 75% capacity for supermarkets and other stores that primarily sell groceries, convenience stores, pharmacies.
  • 50% for all other retail, including discount and big box retailers, liquor stores, hardware stores and garden centres.
• Stores must post capacity limit publicly and have passive screening for patrons. 
• Trips outside of the home should only be for essential reasons (work, school, groceries/pharmacy, health care, assisting vulnerable individuals or exercise and physical activity)
• Families should not visit any other household or allow visitors in their homes – people who live alone can gather with one household
• Everyone should avoid social gatherings

Face Coverings

In response to the alarming and exceptional circumstances at hand, and to further interrupt the deadly trend of transmission in Ontario communities, hospitals, and long-term care homes, the following additional public health measures will take effect January 13, 2021 at 12:01 a.m.: 

• Individuals are required to wear a mask or face covering in the indoor areas of businesses or organizations that are open. Wearing a mask or face covering is now recommended outdoors when you can't physically distance more than two metres.  

A face covering means a medical or non-medical mask or other face covering such as a bandana or scarf that covers

the mouth and nose.

Read the latest FAQs from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit regarding face coverings: 

What you need to know about wearing a face covering in indoor public spaces- FAQ 

Reopening Township Facilities

After reopening, members of the public will be able to access in-person services by appointment only, except for Finance Services. In order to follow health and safety guidelines and advice from our province and local medical officers of health, those visiting or working will notice a number of changes focused on these areas: