The North Bay Police Service outlined the protocols it will be following during the new provincial lockdown.
"On Thursday we entered Day One of a 28-day lockdown," stated chief Scott Tod in a release.
"There is no denying that we are in a pandemic health crisis. The North Bay Police Service will continue to meet the service demands that we always encounter however, like all front line responders, we continue to do our part to support the health and well-being of the people we serve."
Provincial government leaders in consultation with local health care experts have ordered a provincial lockdown to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus and stop it from taking more lives. It will be in effect until February 14th, 2021.
"Our Premier has asked for the cooperation of everyone and in essence stated ‘if you don’t have to go out then please remain at home,'" noted Tod.
"As this the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has progressed we have all of taken precautions and exercised self-discipline regarding physical distancing, restrictions of gatherings, wearing face coverings, and washing our hands. Our response as a police service has been to educate people in our community not only to what behaviors are expected but also why we are taking action. We need to support our health services to lessen the spread of the COVID-19 virus and “flatten” the need for medical care for the people who become critically ill."
Tod feels this kind of enforcement has its challenges. It appears that the days of handing out warnings only have gone.
"We have seen recent enforcement action by members of our police service involving people who refuse to listen to the advice of our health care professions. We are now in month 10 and entering a lockdown. Although our Officers and Special Constables have discretion we have entered into an extraordinary situation and people who refuse to abide by the restrictions should not be surprised if the response they receive involves enforcement action.
"Our response is simple. We support the health system so it can support itself and save lives."
Tod adds that the police communication centre and reception is receiving many calls requesting information on the lockdown requirements.
"We ask that before you contact police that you refer to the Government of Ontario website for information on the Provincial Lockdown and how Ontario is responding to COVID-19 or you can visit the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit website for information," Tod stated.
"Please only call 911 if a crime is taking place or if a person is in immediate danger. If you need to speak to an Officer for a non-emergency matter please call 705-472-1234."
During this provincial lockdown North Bay Police Service will respond to complaints and conduct any required education and enforcement activities involving:
- Indoor organized public events and social gatherings
- Outdoor organized public events and social gatherings
- Weddings, funerals and other religious services, rites or ceremonies
Tod is hopeful residents will respect the lockdown.
"Our members appreciate the assistance and support we have seen from our community," said Tod.
"We now ask you to join with us during this lockdown and continue to support our health care system during this medical crisis. Keeping everyone safe requires that we work together.
“I would like to say a big thank you to the overwhelming majority of you who have abided by the restrictions put in place by the governments and our Service to prevent the spread of the virus and save lives.
"The challenges of the need to educate, create awareness and conduct enforcement of the provincial and federal laws associated to the pandemic have been difficult for all of us. Going forward there will be an increased expectation from the public that we are doing more enforcement. Enforcement by charge will happen when it is appropriate and lawful to perform," concluded Tod.
