PSA: Residents urged to connect virtually this holiday weekend
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Maximum fine of $100,000
can be laid for violations of the new Emergency Measures By-law
As residents
prepare to observe Passover, Easter and Vaisakhi this long weekend, the City of
Vaughan is urging everyone to follow the physical distancing protocols put in place
to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Traditionally,
this is a time to gather with family, friends and neighbours. However, due to
the global pandemic, everyone should stay home and physically distance themselves
from others. The City encourages citizens to find alternative ways of
connecting with loved ones this weekend, including by phone or video.
York Region advises
citizens to:
- Stay at home whenever possible.
- Avoid non-essential trips in the community.
- Postpone or cancel all gatherings.
- Practise physical distancing by staying two metres away from others.
- Wash hands thoroughly and often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
For a complete list of tips, visit york.ca/COVID19.
In accordance with the
provincial emergency order, all places of worship – including churches,
synagogues and mosques – are closed to ensure public safety. Many faith-based
institutions are offering online services in recognition of these important
holidays. Connect with your local institution for more information.
On April 8, the City
adopted a new Emergency Measures
By-law, which provides authority, subject to the Municipal
Act, to Mayor Bevilacqua and City of Vaughan staff to further enforce
social and physical distancing measures, in addition to other orders during
this state of emergency such as limiting access to public property. Failure to
comply with the new by-law is an offence and subject to fines ranging from $500
to $100,000.
Many City services continue
to be offered online or via telephone. For questions, contact Access Vaughan
at 905-832-2281 or visit vaughan.ca/COVID19. To receive the latest updates as they
happen, residents are encouraged to sign up for City Update eNewsletter at vaughan.ca/CityUpdate and follow the City’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram channels.
Those who feel unwell
and believe they have symptoms related to COVID-19 should contact York Region
Public Health or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. For additional
information and resources on COVID-19, visit York Region's website at york.ca/COVID19.
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