Masks are now mandatory in all indoor public spaces across Wood Buffalo.
The active total for COVID-19 cases across the region is now at 51 after 12 new cases over the weekend.
The trigger to put the mask measure in effect was set at 50 cases and will now remain in place for at least 30 days and won’t be lifted if we remain over the threshold.
Under the bylaw, the RMWB will look to first educate people caught without a mask followed by $100 fines for the next offense and $200 fines afterward.
Those under the age of five, need help to put a mask on or have a physical or mental illness that requires them to avoid using a mask would be exempt from the bylaw. People helping somebody with a disability and would have their support hindered by wearing a mask won’t have to wear one as well.
There are some exceptions for the entire public. This includes when eating, drinking, exercising, or leading/ attending a religious activity.
Individuals could also be fined for ‘harassing’ or ‘intimidating’ these individuals.
Businesses must also put up signage reminding residents to put a mask on before entering. The RMWB has already developed them with property owners able to print them off of the RMWB’s website.
People outside don’t need to wear a mask.
COVID-19 Update
Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, announced on Monday 1,440 new cases across the province.
This raises the provincial total to 25,733 with 4,477 cases currently active.
Fort McMurray saw 11 new cases and four additional recoveries putting the active total at 44.
The rural areas saw one new additional case with the active total now at seven.
In total, 362 individuals across the RMWB – 298 in Fort McMurray and 64 in the rural areas – have recovered.
They are among the 20,949 who’ve recovered across the province. This represents over 81 per cent of reported cases.
Meanwhile, there were seven new deaths from COVID-19 in Alberta over the past 72 hours – raising the total to 307.
One of the deaths throughout the pandemic was in Fort McMurray.
