January 19, 2021
COVID-19 Information
In response to the alarming rise of COVID-19 cases, a declaration of emergency / stay at home order is in effect for all of Ontario as of January 14, 2021. The enhanced public health and workplace safety measures are in effect for all of Ontario and are anticipated to be in place until at least February 11, 2021. The purpose is to help:
- keep people at home as much as possible and save lives
- stop the spread of COVID-19 in communities
- prevent the hospital system from becoming overwhelmed
- protect vulnerable populations and those who care for them
What this means
The COVID-19 Response Framework (colour-coded zones) is paused. The provincewide shutdown will continue with stronger public health and workplace safety measures. Everyone must follow the rules (orders) under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and the Reopening Ontario Act.
A stay at home order is in effect for all of Ontario. This means you must stay at home and should only go out for essential reasons.
- No indoor organized public events and social gatherings, except with members of the same household (the people you live with).
- Limit of 5 people for outdoor organized public events and social gatherings, must comply with public health advice on physical distancing.
- Do not travel outside your region or the province unless absolutely necessary.
- Retail stores can only be open from to 8 am to 7 pm (restricted hours do not apply to stores that sell groceries or pharmacies).
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What does the Declaration of Emergency mean for Niagara Falls?
From January 14 until at least February 11 , the following restrictions are in place:
- Attractions, waterparks, zoos, entertainment venues, gaming establishments, museums, experiences and tours are temporarily closed
- Restaurants, bars and other food and drink establishments may only be open for take-out or delivery, including alcohol
- Retails stores may only be open for curb-side pickup or delivery, including wineries, breweries and distilleries (essential retail stores such as grocery and pharmacy open with limited capacities)
- Accommodations remain open with enhanced health and safety protocols in place; pools, fitness centres, spas and event spaces are closed
- Public parks remain open; physical distancing from others must be maintained
Learn more at ontario.ca
At the end of the Provincewide Shutdown period, the COVID-19 Response Framework: Keeping Ontario Safe and Open will be re-enacted. As with every step taken in the fight against COVID-19, Ontario will proceed with caution and in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and other health experts.
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Canada/USA Border Update:
The Canada/USA border continues to be closed to all non-essential travel until at least February 21, 2021. Updates will be provided as they become available.
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Update on the OPG Winter Festival of Lights
As of December 30, 2020, the Festival lights will be turned off early to echo the Public Health message of staying home to stop the spread of COVID-19. We look forward to seeing you again for the 2021 Winter Festival of Lights.