Dear Members and Friends of the Lake of Bays Association,
We recognize and acknowledge the legitimate health and safety concerns every person is experiencing right now as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the short term, every community in Canada is focused on preventing the spread of the virus. The clear message from our federal and provincial health officials is to stay home, specifically in your primary residence.
We also understand that some of our members may have already been at their Lake of Bays home when the crisis escalated in March and have stayed put. Others have opted to self-isolate at their cottage. Our best advice, which is consistent with current medical advice, is to stay home—wherever you are—and to practice social distancing. Each of us is personally responsible for ensuring that our actions, wherever we are residing, are not responsible for spreading the virus.
If you are not currently residing at Lake of Bays, think carefully before travelling to your cottage. Do not come if you have any symptoms. If you are visiting your property bring sufficient provisions and do not stop and shop along the way. If you choose to come to Muskoka for an extended period of time, self-isolate for 14 days before shopping locally.
Our Muskoka hospitals are there to serve anyone who comes through their doors to the best of their ability, but they have limited capacity. It should be understood that if you develop symptoms or other health concerns your best access to health care resources will be where your primary residence is. These are extraordinary circumstances and none of these accommodations are long-term solutions.
While it is unlikely that it will be “business as usual” this summer, LOBA will be looking for guidance from health care officials and politicians in the coming weeks and months. Our hope is that firm resolve now will be rewarded with a return to normal sooner rather then later. In the meantime, we all (permanent and seasonal residents) need to act responsibly with a view to ensuring both our personal safety and all others we may interact with.
Please stay safe and keep well.
Mary Ann Peden
President
Ian Beverley
Past President
Wendy Gibson
Vice President, Chair Communications
