Face Masks Mandatory in public places

07/17/2020

The Kahnawà:ke COVID-19 task force is requiring the wearing of masks or face coverings that cover the nose and mouth be mandatory in indoor public places effective Monday, July 20, 2020. This date was selected in order to provide the community with the necessary time to prepare. This Directive will apply in the following places:

• retail business
• service company (e.g., pharmacies, bank, post office)
• office space where services are offered directly to the public
• a common area that is open to the public (office lobbies and entranceways and elevators)
• place of worship
• rental venue used to host events, such as conferences
• place where sports or recreational activities are practiced
• restaurant (upon arrival, for use of washroom and departure; not required while sitting at table and eating)

Places where face masks are not required:

• private home (provided that invited guests can safely keep a 6-foot distance)
• factory where the general public is not permitted, and safety controls are in place (e.g., restricted access, daily health checks and monitoring of staff, 6-foot distance or impermeable barriers are in place) 
• office space where the general public is not permitted, and safety controls are in place (e.g., restricted access, daily health checks and monitoring of staff, 6-foot distance or impermeable barriers are in place) 
• Outdoors where a 6-foot distance can be maintained
• A face shield may not be worn instead of a mask or face covering in places where wearing a mask or face covering is mandatory.

For ages 2-12, it is not mandatory but highly recommended. Masks or facial coverings are not recommended for those under 2 years of age.

Masks or facial coverings are not required if a person has a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a mask, or those unable to put on or take off a mask by themselves. People who cannot wear a mask or face covering should avoid areas where they are mandatory as much as possible.

This measure is put in place to help minimize the spread of the virus within our community and to help protect our most vulnerable. Masking is always in combination with the physical distancing and hygiene measures. If you are sick, stay home, self-isolate, and call the COVID-19 Testing Center to be tested. Working as a community, we can limit and manage its spread.  

To view the official Directive, visit covid-19.kmhc.ca/directives .