JOINT NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF PENATANGUISHENE
TOWN OF MIDLAND
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The COVID-19 pandemic has increased sales of snowmobile trail permits as well as snowmobiles in our area. Each year we work with our Southern Georgian Bay OPP detachment along with the Georgian Bay Snowriders Club to promote snowmobile safety. This year, along with the usual safety tips, snowmobilers are reminded that COVID-19 regulations apply, regardless of if you are on the trails, ice, or in a public meeting area.
“Over the last week I have received many complaints about snowmobilers congregating on trails, in parking lots and other locations not maintaining a two metre distance and exceeding the gathering limits,” says Doug Leroux, mayor of Penetanguishene. “At the end of the day Snowmobiling is permitted under the stay-at-home order, but it is important to ensure we are following all of the rules set in place to ensure we do not put our community at further risk.”
On Jan. 12, 2021, the province of Ontario announced the stay-at-home order, which outlined changes to the outdoor gathering guidelines. Ontarians are expected to limit outdoor gatherings to a maximum of five people, as long as a two-metre physical distance can be met and face coverings/masks are worn.
“It is very important that we continue to follow the direction of the stay-at-home order,” said Stewart Strathearn, mayor of the Town of Midland. “Whether you’re out snowmobiling or shopping, all of us need to work together to protect our families, friends and the community as a whole, by practicing social distancing, wearing masks and only leaving your home for essential reasons.”
Snowmobile patrol officers from the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are concentrating their efforts to patrol popular snowmobile trails and Town Dock areas. Officers will be stopping and speaking with riders to educate and enforce COVID-19 regulations in addition to checking riders for signs of impairment, equipment, and trail passes/licensing.
Please ride smart, ride safe.
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