Steps taken to minimize risk

Pictou County businesses close, travellers required to self-quarantine

There have been no COVID19 cases reported in Pictou County, but the ripple effects of the virus have already created vast chains in the community with schools closed and businesses taking steps to minimize the spread of the illness, including asking employees to work from home.

All municipal, town and band council offices are closed to walk-in traffic.

Members of the public are still being asked to call the office lines with any questions they might have. People are also being asked to pay utility bills and parking tickets online if possible, and again to practise social distancing.

Social distancing is the act of deliberately creating space between people.

On March 17, the provincial government announced bars must close and restaurants must be takeout only and all gatherings have been reduced from 150 to 50 people.

All Nova Scotians are now required to self-quarantine if they have travelled outside the country in the last 14 days. This directive applies to all Nova Scotians under the Health Protection Act.

Town and municipal staff are still at work, but have cancelled all non-essential meetings and are planning to work remotely if they have to.

“Should it be required, staff can communicate via cell phones and texts. Each individual will maintain their own equipment and vehicles so contact with others is limited,” said Town of Pictou CAO Dan Troke in an email.

All Nova Scotian’s are now required to self-quarantine if they have travelled outside of the province in the last 14 days. This directive applies to all Nova Scotians under the Health Protection Act.

In keeping with social distancing recommendations, police officers are being advised to limit all non-essential contact with people, and are being issued extra personal protective equipment.

“Because of the nature of our work we have to deal with a lot of emergencies and it’s person and person,” said Westville Police Chief Howie Dunbar. “You’ll notice that officers will be wearing gloves and masks to protect themselves and the public.”

Dunbar told The News that Westville and Stellarton also have plans in place to support each other in case of officer shortages. The same protective measures are in place for the New Glasgow Police Department.

To lessen the burden on policing services, people are asked to phone in any non-emergency inquiries to the regular departmental phone line.

“I think the citizenry in general are pretty understanding of the seriousness and the nature of COVID-19 and the importance of social distancing,” said Dunbar.