City of Stratford Ending Its State of Emergency

As public health indicators around COVID-19 continue to stabilize or improve, the City of Stratford is ending its declared State of Emergency, effective Monday, May 16 at 11:59 p.m.

“The pandemic is not over, and we can’t let our guard down or become complacent,” said Mayor Dan Mathieson. “But it’s time to move forward, and make the transition as a community to the next stage of our pandemic response.”

Stratford’s State of Emergency was declared on March 26, 2020. That step, which is available to municipalities under Ontario’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, not only reinforced the serious nature of the pandemic, but also gave the City some additional flexibility in responding to it.

The decision to end the State of Emergency was made in consultation with Medical Officer of Health Dr. Miriam Klassen and the City’s Emergency Control Group, which includes representatives from Huron Perth Public Health, Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance, Perth County Paramedic Services, Stratford Police Service, Stratford Fire Department, Festival Hydro and City staff.

Recent statistics on new COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and outbreaks point to a positive trend, which, coupled with high vaccination rates locally, help reduce the risk in the community.

“I want to thank the Emergency Control Group and our local public health professionals for their steady guidance during these challenging times,” said Mayor Mathieson. “I would also like to recognize the dedication of our frontline heroes, and the hard work and perseverance of our residents, who continue to do their part to help keep our community safe.”

COVID-19 transmission is still high in our communities, and people need to continue to protect themselves.

• Keep up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations, getting all recommended doses for which you are eligible. Visit www.hpph.ca/GetVaccinated for the latest information.
• Know your risk and whether you are eligible for early testing and treatment. If you are, have a plan to access that testing and treatment.
• Wear a well-fitted three-layer cloth mask or medical mask in indoor public settings, and when socializing indoors with people from outside your household, especially if anyone is elderly or immune compromised.
• Stay home when sick, even with mild symptoms, and keep ill children out of childcare and school.
• Wash hands frequently.