March 22, 2020 – 2:30pm

We want to thank all those in our community who are doing their civic and social duties related to COVID-19 by staying home, going out only when necessary, and maintaining social distancing. Social distancing is proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of illness during an outbreak. We need everyone to do their part.We are asking parents and caregivers in our community to talk to your young adults and children so they understand the importance of social distancing during this time. Our community needs them to be part of the solution by maintaining a distance of 2 metres apart at all times for the times we must leave our homes.If you are going out to pick up food, gas, groceries etc., please only send one person from your household to do so.What is social distancing?It means to make changes in your everyday routine to minimize close contact with others, including:

• Avoiding crowded places and non-essential gatherings
• Avoiding common greetings such as hugs and handshakes
• Limiting, or avoiding contact with people who are higher risk, such as older adults or those in poor health
• Keeping a distance of at least 2 arms length (2 meters) from others, as much as possible.

To learn more about social distancing, please visit Public Health

:https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/health-professionals/public-health-measures-mitigate-covid-19.html

Here is an infographic on social distancing

.https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/phac-aspc/documents/services/publications/diseases-conditions/social-distancing-infograph/social-distancing-infograph-eng.pdfOther tips:

• Be vigilant about washing your hands. Wash your hands frequently.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Cough or sneeze in to the bend of your arm.
• Avoid touching high contact surfaces as much as possible.
• If you are purchasing gas, please use a paper towel to hold the gas pump and discard when done.
• Grocery shop only when necessary and certainly not more than once a week. Be sure to adhere to social distancing inside the store.
• Connect with family, neighbours, and friends virtually! We all need each other right now.