Local people often look forward to pike and pickerel fishing as well as getting out on the water to enjoy the many lakes and rivers in the area. Because of this, some local municipalities/cities/towns are opening their boat launches this weekend. Check your local area website for information on which ones are open.
The Health Unit is offering tips on safe boating and fishing during the COVID-19 response.
- Keep the physical distance of 2m/6ft when using boat launches
- Gatherings of more than 5 people are still not permitted
- Boat or fish by yourself or with people you live with – do not fish where prohibited
- Do not move any barriers placed by the municipality/city
- The marinas are still off limits for public use – pay attention to local signage (Recent government changes are permitting staff to prepare the marinas for opening dates which are yet to be determined.)
- Be mindful of where to empty garbage
- Be safe when boating, kayaking and canoeing
- Do not use recreation facilities and amenities that are identified as closed under the provincial emergency orders such as parks, playgrounds, ball diamonds, water access points, washrooms and picnic tables.
The Health Unit staff are answering COVID-19 related questions and concerns from 8:30am to 4:30pm every day at 1-800-660-5853 extension 2499. Public Health Inspectors are also available to discuss environmental health concerns. You can also get more information about COVID-19 by visiting www.healthunit.org/coronavirus or by connecting with LGLHealthUnit on Facebook and Twitter.