The use of face coverings in some public areas of Windsor will become mandatory starting next week.
Mayor Drew Dilkens has exercised his emergency powers to require anyone inside a public indoor space in the city of Windsor to wear a mask, effective Wednesday, August 19.
The mayor said the move is not only to ensure public safety and to slow the spread of the virus but also to keep confusion to a minimum.
"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 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."
The mandate covers places of business, community centres, places of worship, entertainment venues and any common-use areas within a multi-use dwelling, such as the 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.
Outdoor public spaces are not included in the mandate. However, mask use is still strongly recommended if physical distancing is a challenge.
The complete order on masks and face coverings can be found on the City of Windsor's official website. In the event of a conflict between the city's mandate and any order given by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, the more stringent guidelines take effect.
