As Windsor-Essex enters Stage 3 of the provincial reopening framework this week, Mayor Drew Dilkens is taking action to clarify and standardize the rules regarding masks and face coverings to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Effective August 19, 2020, a mask that covers the nose and mouth will be required in all indoor public spaces

Windsor - Aug. 13, 2020: As Windsor-Essex enters Stage 3 of the provincial reopening framework this week, Mayor Drew Dilkens is taking action to clarify and standardize the rules regarding masks and face coverings to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

Effective August 19, 2020, a mask that covers the nose and mouth will be required in all indoor public spaces by order of the Mayor, pursuant to section 4(1) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, including places of business, community centres, places of worship, entertainment venues and any common-use areas within a multi-use dwelling (such as lobby, elevator, laundry rooms and corridors). Exceptions are made for children and those with underlying medical conditions and to comply with the Ontario Human Rights Code.

While the order is enacted today under the authority granted to the Mayor under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, at the next regular meeting of City Council, it is intended that a by-law will be discussed to enact similar provisions.

“As we enter Stage 3, I’m committed to doing everything within my power to make sure that we keep the spread of COVID-19 low in my community,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens. “So we want to make this as simple as possible: if you’re in an indoor public space, wear a mask. By taking this important step, we’ll add consistency and uniformity to the rules to help keep everyone safe.”

See the full order regarding masks and face coverings. If there is any conflict between this Order and the Order of the Medical Officer of Health for the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, then the more stringent provisions shall prevail.

This order does not apply to outdoor public spaces, but again, if adequate distancing is an issue, wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in outdoor settings as well.

For more safety tips and practices, visit the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit website. For more information on municipal matters related to COVID-19, visit www.citywindsor.ca/covid-19.