Public Health Measures Remain in Place

Today, the Town of Saugeen Shores announced that the state of emergency for the COVID-19 pandemic was lifted as of 10:00 p.m. on Monday, September 13. The Town declared a state of emergency on March 24, 2020.

Declaring an emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act gives municipal governments access to tools, funding, and resources to protect residents’ health and safety. As the pandemic continues, and the community gradually reopens with standard operating procedures in place, the state of emergency is no longer needed.

“With low case numbers and high levels of vaccination, it is time for Saugeen Shores to exit the state of emergency declared in March 2020,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “The end of the state of emergency does not mean the pandemic is over. It is simply another step forward toward reopening our community. I want to thank Town staff for their ongoing dedication in delivering essential services for our community during a challenging time.”

While the impact of COVID-19 is stabilizing, the Saugeen Shores Emergency Control Group will continue to meet regularly. If the situation changes, the Town has the ability to move back into a state of emergency. Provincial orders are still in effect. Ontario is now in Step Three of its Roadmap to Reopen.

In Grey Bruce, 83% of eligible residents (12+) have one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 77% are fully vaccinated. The Town hopes these numbers continue to climb to increase protection and further limit the spread of the virus. High vaccine rates are positive news, but it is critical to remember that public health measures remain in place. People should continue to practice physical distancing, wear masks in public indoor places, and stay home when sick. Visit the Grey Bruce Public Health website and www.saugeenshores.ca/COVID-19 for updates and resources.

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