THUNDER BAY -- Thunder Bay Police say they will not be randomly stopping people and checking why they are not at home.
Police on Saturday issued a release in response to emergency measures announced on Friday by the province, giving law enforcement enhanced powers to stop and question the public following even stricter stay-at-home measures put in place by Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his cabinet.
Police say they continue to review the new regulation, under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.
"We will enforce when situations dictate, such as incidents where there has been a blatant disregard of the province’s stay-at-home orders," the release reads.
Under the new rules, the public is ordered to remain at home with the exception of essential work, medical appointments or outdoor exercise. The rules have also closed all outdoor recreational facilities, including parks and playgrounds.Indoor gatherings with those outside one's household, with limited exceptions for one person who lives alone, are also in place.Police say they will exercise caution in any interaction with the public during the current lockdown.
"During the review, we remain mindful of the perceptions of the broader public as well as within more marginalized, racialized and vulnerable communities. We all have obligations regarding the provincial orders. The members of the Thunder Bay Police Service will continue to focus on the four Es."
These include engaging with the individuals in question, explaining why they are there, educating the public on rules and regulations and enforcement, as a last result."
"This approach has proven to be very successful. We will continue to work with our public health partners to ensure the orders are followed. We all have a part to play in this pandemic, especially in complying with the provincial orders. Please be assured that the Thunder Bay Police Service will be taking a fair and reasonable approach regarding the enforcement of the new orders," the release reads.
