Keeping us all safe during the COVID-19 pandemic

Whitby, Ontario – The Regional Municipality of Durham and the Durham Regional Police Service would like to remind everyone of the importance of following public health protocols during this third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents are encouraged to follow all public health guidance, such as wearing a mask; practising physical distancing of at least six feet; and other important health measures.

With Ontario currently under a stay-at-home order, trips outside of residences should be reserved for essential reasons (food, prescriptions, health services, exercise, etc.). Even when outdoors, masks are encouraged; particularly when people can’t remain six feet apart.

There has been a concerning increase in the number of anti-mask and other demonstrations with large gatherings. The current provincial order states that no more than five people may be together outside, unless they are part of the same family.

Vaccines are rolling out. However, residents are reminded that the Province of Ontario determines vaccine allocation for all public health units. Vaccine supply is still limited in our region, so residents are encouraged to keep checking durham.ca/VaccineAppointment for information about new appointment times. 

Residents are reminded that the Durham Regional Police Service has a process for citizens who want to report a non-compliant business or a large gathering. Report either situation at www.drps.ca under Online Services – Community Concerns; or call the DRPS non-emergency line at 1-888-579-1520, extension 6425. Please do not call 911 for these types of reports.

The Health Department also has an online resource designed to provide residents and businesses with information on current regulations; regarding gathering limits and the restrictions that apply to all businesses under the provincial Stay at Home order. Visit durham.ca/reopeningtoolkit for more information and additional resources.

Quotes

“Over the past week, we have seen the largest numbers of new daily cases of COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic. We are truly at a critical stage. Residents are reminded that Durham is not exempt from three variants that are allowing this virus to spread rapidly. We need to work together to help our health care system and our most vulnerable. Please be part of the solution—follow public health measures, keep outdoor gatherings to no more than five, wear a mask, and get vaccinated when it is your turn.”

-        Dr. Robert Kyle, Durham Region Medical Officer of Health

 “The Durham Regional Police Service is working together with public health to ensure compliance of the measures set out by the provincial government to limit the spread of COVID-19. Under current public health measures, indoor gatherings with anyone outside of your immediate household are not permitted; and outdoor gatherings are limited to five people, as long as physical distance can be maintained. While we understand that this has a profound effect on the community and local businesses, we would like to remind everyone to continue to follow guidelines set out by public health officials. To report COVID-19 compliance concerns, please call our non-emergency number at 888-579-1520.”

-        Todd Rollauer, Interim Chief of Police for the Durham Regional Police Service

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For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.