DRYDEN, Ont. – The City of Dryden has declared a state of emergency, citing “possible community impacts” of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a release, the city strongly urged residents to follow public health advice.
The measure was approved by city council and executed by deputy mayor Shayne MacKinnon Saturday morning. It was not immediately clear what practical effect the declaration would have on the city’s public health response. Officials in other Ontario municipalities have said declaring an emergency could allow them to take steps such as using by-law officers to enforce self-isolation directives and providing WSIB coverage to volunteers.
“The decision to declare an emergency is never taken lightly,” mayor Greg Wilson said in a release. “Our entire Council takes this situation extremely seriously and our collective decision clearly shows this.”
Wilson emphasized it is crucial for anyone asked to self-isolate to do so. The federal government has directed anyone returning from international travel to self-isolate for 14 days.
“Municipal efforts are focused on the COVID-19 pandemic for the health and safety of everyone, but we need all our residents to act together,” Wilson said. “If you are asked to self-isolate, you must comply. Refusing to do so is irresponsible and places our community at increased risk.”
Wilson further urged all residents to practice social distancing of at least two metres and frequently wash their hands. Residents can find more information on COVID-19 and the City of Dryden’s response, including how municipal services are affected, at the city’s website.
