Haldimand, Norfolk counties proactively preparing for COVID-19

Haldimand and Norfolk Counties are continuing to work closely with the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit, hospitals, healthcare centres and physicians to respond to COVID-19.

While there are currently NO confirmed cases in Haldimand or Norfolk, both Counties have activated their Emergency Operations Centres and are taking action to support local hospitals should patient volumes increase.

Should increased capacity at local hospitals be needed, both Haldimand and Norfolk Counties have made preparations to open interim care centers, to be staffed by local healthcare professionals.

In Haldimand County, this site will be at the Dunnville Memorial Arena.

In Norfolk County, the site will be at the Port Dover Arena.

“I fully support and appreciate the coordinated, proactive efforts of County staff, the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit & local hospitals to ensure our community is prepared for COVID-19,” said Haldimand County Mayor Ken Hewitt. “Residents should be assured that we are taking all steps & precautions necessary to minimize the negative impacts of this virus in Haldimand,” he added.

“We all hope that the opening of these facilities won’t be necessary, but if the COVID-19 virus continues to spread, I want residents to know that we are fully prepared,” said Norfolk County Mayor Kristal Chopp. “By strategically co-ordinating with our neighbours in Haldimand, we’ll be able to quickly increase capacity at local hospitals and ensure residents continue to get the care they need.”

Haldimand and Norfolk Counties are recruiting volunteers for a variety of tasks to address community needs during the COVID-19 pandemic including delivering food, medications and other supplies to seniors in self-isolation.

Those with relevant skills and experience – for example nursing staff (registered or not), dieticians, personal support workers, food handlers, chefs, respiratory therapists, health care aides and others – are encouraged to securely register with the Counties at https://hnhu.org/covidvolunteers/. Potential volunteers can also leave a voicemail at 519-426-1947 or 905-774-1530.

For local information about the COVID-19 pandemic – including facility closures, program cancellations, meeting postponement & visitation restriction information – visit HaldimandCounty.ca/covid-19/ or NorfolkCounty.ca/covid-19.

For up-to-date public health information, including frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and daily updated from the Medical Officer of Health, visit the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit’s website.

Haldimand County announces closure of administration building, additional COVID-19 response measures

In an effort to minimize the spread of COVID19 and to protect County staff and the public, the Haldimand County Administration Building will be closed for in-person service until further notice as of March 18, 2020. While there are currently NO reported cases of COVID19 in Haldimand, the County – in partnership with the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and in alignment with Federal and Provincial actions – is taking a proactive approach to ‘flattening the curve’.

While the Haldimand County Administration Building is closed to the public, staff will continue to be available to assist residents by phone or email during regular hours (Mon-Fri, 8:30am to 4:30pm). Alternate municipal service options are available that do not require in-person visits. Residents are encouraged to contact the County at 905-318-5932 or info@haldimandcounty.on.ca with all enquiries. A list of alternate service options is available at HaldimandCounty.ca/covid-19/.

“We’re working closely with the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and taking all steps necessary to prevent COVID-19 from becoming an issue in the community. It’s extremely important that we remain calm, follow directions from healthcare authorities and support one another during this time. The main goal right now is to prevent community spread, and the best way to do that is to stay home. There are over 20,000 vulnerable people over the age of 70 in Haldimand & Norfolk counties and we have a shared duty to protect them,” said Haldimand County Mayor Ken Hewitt.

“In this light, following recommendations from the Province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, we have made some adjustments to day-to-day operations to protect staff and residents, while still providing essential services to the community,” Hewitt added. “Council recognizes that there will be economic hardships associated with the unfolding of the COVID-19 situation and we will do everything in our power to provide assistance to local businesses & residents. As we approach the operating budget and apply any County financial policies during this pandemic, we’ll look at all options possible to lessen economic impacts and provide support.”

Updates related to COVID19 will be shared by Haldimand County and its healthcare partners as it becomes available. Residents are encouraged to educate themselves about COVID19 & follow the Health Unit’s recommendations to help prevent the spread of viruses:

  • if you develop symptoms of illness that you think are related to COVID-19, contact your primary care provider or call the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit Hotline at 519-426-6170 ext. 9999 (Mon-Fri, 8:30am to 4:30pm). Your primary care provider or Health Unit staff will provide guidance and, if necessary, arrange for screening in coordination with the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit. Unless your situation is critical, please do not visit the emergency department.
  • stay home if possible
  • wash your hands often with soap and water;
  • avoid close contact with people who are sick;
  • if you have to leave the house for an essential activity (e.g: to acquire food/necessary supplies) try to stay at least 6 feet away from others
  • cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; if you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm;
  • avoid touching your face, eyes and mouth to prevent illness;
  • clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Residents looking to stay informed regarding the COVID19 pandemic can do so by logging onto the HaldimandNorfolk Health Unit website. A page (https://hnhu.org/healthtopic/coronavirus
covid19/) has been specifically dedicated to the virus and includes material on who is at risk, how to protect your family, what to do if you feel ill, and what precautions to take if you’ve travelled outside of Canada. The site also contains key contact information and links to updates on the current situation at the global, national and provincial level.

All Haldimand County facility closures, program cancellations, meeting postponement & visitation restriction information is available at HaldimandCounty.ca/covid19/ & will be updated regularly.

Grandview Lodge visitation limited to essential visitors only

In addition to closing museums, libraries & arenas, Haldimand County is restricting all non-essential visitors to Grandview Lodge. These restrictions are being implemented in response to direction from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, as a measure to protect vulnerable residents.

The Ministry of Health is identifying essential visitors as those who have a resident who is dying or very ill or a parent/guardian of an ill child or youth in a live-in treatment setting. The Ministry will re-evaluate this measure in the coming weeks and ensure consistency with their recent guidance on enhanced public health measures.

Essential visitors to Grandview Lodge will continue to be actively screened prior to entry. Those who fail screening will not be permitted to enter. Grandview Lodge will be working closely with its recreation staff, residents & resident family members to facilitate video chats & other communications where possible to keep residents from feeling the negative impacts of social isolation.

There are currently NO reported cases of COVID-19 in Haldimand County and all cancelations, closures, postponements & visitation restrictions are being implemented as a precautionary measure.

Updates related to COVID-19 will be shared by Haldimand County and its healthcare partners as it becomes available. Residents are encouraged to educate themselves about COVID-19 & follow the Health Unit’s recommendations to help prevent the spread of viruses:

– wash your hands often with soap and water;

– avoid close contact with people who are sick;

– cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; if you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm;

– avoid touching your face, eyes and mouth to prevent illness;

– clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Residents looking to stay informed regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic can do so by logging onto the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit website. A page (https://hnhu.org/health-topics/covid-19/) has been specifically dedicated to the virus and includes material on who is at risk, how to protect your family, what to do if you feel ill, and what precautions to take if you’ve travelled outside of Canada. The site also contains key contact information and links to updates on the current situation at the global, national and provincial level.

All facility closures, program cancellations, meeting postponement & visitation restriction information is available at HaldimandCounty.ca & will be updated regularly.

Haldimand County Announces Facility Closures And Program Cancellations Following Medical Officer Of Health Recommendations

Effective immediately, Haldimand County will be closing all museums, libraries & arenas for the next 3 weeks. March Break camps have also been canceled and a number of public workshops & meetings have been postponed (including the Business Excellence Awards Breakfast and Official Plan Update workshop). These closures, cancelations and postponements are directly aligned with recommendations from Haldimand-Norfolk’s Medical Officer of Health & the Province of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer.

There are currently NO reported cases of COVID-19 in Haldimand County and all cancelations, closures and postponements are being implemented as a precautionary measure. Grandview Lodge staff will continue to screen all visitors for symptoms prior to entry – as mandated by the Ministry of Long Term Care. The Haldimand County Administration Building will remain open for service, however, signage is posted requesting that visitors refrain from entering if they are experiencing symptoms of illness. Additional hand sanitization stations will be set up in the Administration Building foyer.

Re-imbursements for canceled museum, library and March Break programs will be provided to participants. Program re-imbursement details will be shared with registered participants via the contact information provided at the time of registration.

“We regret having to cancel programs and close community facilities but are doing so in the interest of community safety, based on the expert medical advice of our local and provincial healthcare authorities,” said Craig Manley, Haldimand County’s Chief Administrative Officer. “Residents should remain calm and be assured that Haldimand County, with assistance and governance from the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit, is ready to respond should COVID-19 become an issue in the community,” he added.

Updates related to COVID-19 will be shared by Haldimand County and its healthcare partners as it becomes available. Residents are encouraged to educate themselves about COVID-19 & follow the Health Unit’s recommendations to help prevent the spread of viruses:

– wash your hands often with soap and water;

– avoid close contact with people who are sick;

– cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; if you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm;

– avoid touching your face, eyes and mouth to prevent illness;

– clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Residents looking to stay informed regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic can do so by logging onto the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit website. A page (https://hnhu.org/health-topic/coronavirus-covid-19/) has been specifically dedicated to the virus and includes material on who is at risk, how to protect your family, what to do if you feel ill, and what precautions to take if you’ve travelled outside of Canada.

The site also contains key contact information and links to updates on the current situation at the global, national and provincial level.

‘Healthy You Series’ At Haldimand County Public Libraries Brings Healthcare Information To Residents

In partnership with the Haldimand Family Health Team,  Haldimand County Public Library will be offering ongoing health education sessions at library branches across Haldimand County this year. The series will include free, informative programs about various important health topics and will be lead by registered healthcare professionals. The Healthy You Series provides community members with the opportunity to connect with healthcare professionals and other members of their community for information on and support with common health issues.

The Healthy You Series in 2020 will consist of the following programs:

Understanding the Teenage Brain

Caledonia Branch (100 Haddington St.) – Monday March 23 at 6:00p.m.

Hagersville Branch (13 Alma St. N.) – Tuesday March 24 at 6:00p.m.

Dunnville Branch (317 Chestnut St) – Wednesday March 25 at 6:00p.m.

Anxiety

Hagersville Branch (13 Alma St. N.) – Tuesday April 14 at 6:00p.m.

Caledonia Branch (100 Haddington St.)- Monday April 20 at 6:00p.m.

Dunnville Branch (317 Chestnut St.) – Wednesday April 22 at 6:00p.m.

Vaping

Dunnville Branch (317 Chestnut St.) – Monday May 11 at 6:00p.m.

Caledonia Branch (100 Haddington St.) – Tuesday May 12 at 6:00p.m.

Hagersville Branch (13 Alma St. N.) – Wednesday May 13 at 6:00p.m.

Eat, Sleep, Move for Mental Health

Hagersville Branch (13 Alma St. N.) – Tuesday September 15 at 2:00p.m.

Dunnville Branch (317 Chestnut St.) – Wednesday September 16 at 2:00p.m.

Caledonia Branch (100 Haddington St.) –Monday September 21 at 2:00p.m

Fall Prevention

Hagersville Branch (13 Alma St. N.) – Wednesday October 14 at 2:00p.m.

Caledonia Branch (100 Haddington St.) – Wednesday October 21 at 2:00 p.m.

Dunnville Branch (317 Chestnut St.) – Monday October 26 at 2:00 p.m.

Managing Depression

Hagersville Branch (13 Alma St. N.) – Tuesday November 3 at 6:00p.m.

Caledonia Branch (100 Haddington St.) – Wednesday November 4 at 6:00p.m.

Dunnville Branch (317 Chestnut St.) – Monday November 9 at 6:00p.m.

Registration is required for all Healthy You Series programs. Interested community members can register in person at the library branch hosting the session or by calling 289-674-0400.

More information about the Healthy You Series can be found on the library website, by visiting library branches which are hosting the sessions, or by calling the Haldimand Family Health Team at 365-206-0303. Residents are also encouraged to contact the Haldimand Family Health Team at the phone number above to suggest topics for upcoming Healthy You Series programs.

Haldimand County Taking Steps To Protect Community Safety Amid Covid-19 Concerns

Haldimand County has been actively monitoring the spread of COVID-19 in partnership with the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit. Though there are currently no reported cases in Haldimand and the risk to residents – as defined by the Province – remains low, staff are prepared to respond if required and continue to take steps to protect community health and safety.

Though the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit is the lead agency in pandemic situations, Haldimand County has its own supporting pandemic plan that outlines operational contingency plans, response logistics & related matters. Should COVID-19 become an issue in Haldimand County, plans are in place to respond & mitigate adverse impacts.

As a precautionary measure, all visitors to Grandview Lodge will be screened for symptoms prior to entry – as mandated by the Ministry of Long Term Care. Similarly, notices have been posted at municipal facility entrances requesting that residents refrain from entering if they are symptomatic.

Updates related to COVID-19 will be shared by Haldimand County and its healthcare partners as it becomes available. Residents are encouraged to educate themselves about COVID-19 & follow the Health Unit’s recommendations to help prevent the spread of viruses:

– wash your hands often with soap and water;

– avoid close contact with people who are sick;

– cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; if you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm;

– avoid touching your face, eyes and mouth to prevent illness;

– clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

The most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 may be found on the Ontario Ministry of Health’s website.

Haldimand County Paramedic Services Offering Community Flu Vaccine Clinics

In late 2019, Haldimand County received $5,910 in funding from the Hamilton Norfolk Haldimand Brant Emergency Services Steering Committee (HNHB ESSC) to host influenza vaccination clinics across the community. The first clinic will take place Thursday, January 9, 2020 from 10am to 3pm at R Villa Caledonia Retirement Living in Caledonia (339 Argyle St. S). Vaccinations are free, and no appointment is required.

Local influenza vaccine clinics are funded through the HNHB ESSC using funds from St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. The goal of the clinics is to enhance access to influenza vaccines for vulnerable residents and individuals with limiting medical issues.

Vaccinations will be administered by a Haldimand County Community Paramedic. Residents who wish to attend and receive a vaccination may do so on a walk-in basis during the clinic hours. While vaccinations are free, residents must provide a valid Ontario Health Card.

Additional vaccine clinic times and locations will be announced shortly at HaldimandCounty.ca.

Flood Watch Issued For Lake Erie Shoreline, Residents Urged To Stay Away From Waterways

Effective immediately, the Long Point Region Conservation Authority is issuing a Flood Watch for all areas along the Lake Erie shoreline. The Grand River Conservation Authority has also issued a Watershed Conditions Statement for the Grand River Watershed.

Environment Canada is expecting up to 37 km/h winds from the northeast this afternoon, diminishing to 19 km/h southeast overnight and south Thursday morning. Winds are expected to increase to 28 km/h southwest by noon Thursday, and further increase to 65 km/h southwest Thursday evening.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is currently forecasting Port Colborne to rise 1.1 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.7 meters (IGLD) and Long Point to rise 0.5 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.2 meters (IGLD).  Strong winds are expected to cause wave heights to reach up to 1.7 meters in the Port Colborne area and up to 2.5 meters in the Long Point area. The forecasted lake surge and wave heights are similar in magnitude to what occurred during this past Sunday’s event.

Lake levels are expected to begin to rise early Thursday afternoon, and peak between 8:00 PM and midnight late Thursday evening. If this surge level is reached, flooding can be expected in low lying areas along the Lake Erie shoreline.

“In addition to the flooding, high winds will likely pose a hazard during this event, especially when they peak Thursday evening,” said Jason Gallagher, Fire Chief / Manager of Emergency Medical Services. “High winds can easily toss objects that become projectiles; it’s best to stay indoors if at all possible,” Gallagher added.

Haldimand County Emergency Services will be closely monitoring conditions and roads along the lakeshore and will implement closures as necessary. Access to the Port Maitland Pier will be closed tomorrow afternoon and the public is urged to stay away from this area due to expected high winds and waves.

Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from all waterways. Residents are also advised to contact their insurance company regarding flood insurance if they do not already have it.

This Flood Watch is in effect until noon on Friday, November 1, 2019.

New Library Partnership Program Helps Connect Caregivers To Autism Resources/Information

Haldimand County Public Library has embarked on a new partnership with Autism Ontario to help caregivers of children access resources and navigate the new Ontario Autism Program. Information sessions will be held by Autism Ontario staff at both Dunnville and Caledonia library branches this fall.

Autism Ontario (formerly Autism Society Ontario) is the province’s leading source of information and referral on autism and is one of the largest collective voices representing the autism community. It is a registered charitable organization dedicated to increasing public awareness about autism and the day-to-day challenges faces by individuals & their families.

As services for individuals with autism are changing, Autism Ontario has instated the Service Navigation Program to provide system navigation supports to families who are interested in accessing the province’s new Ontario Autism Program (OAP) and Childhood Budgets.

A free information session for parents about the new OAP will be presented by an Autism Ontario service navigator at the Caledonia Library in October and the Dunnville Library in November.

Caledonia Library – Ontario Autism Program & Childhood Budgets Information Session
100 Haddington St, Caledonia
Wednesday, October 23
1 to 3pm OR 5 to 7pm

Dunnville Library – Ontario Autism Program & Childhood Budgets Information Session
317 Chestnut St, Dunnville
Thursday, November 21
1 to 3pm OR 5 to 7pm

The information session is intended for parents only. Registration may be completed online via the Autism Ontario website.

For more information about this and other Haldimand County Public Library programs, visit the Library’s website, follow along on Facebook or call/visit any local branch.

Haldimand County Fire Department Reminding Residents Of Open Air Fire Burning By-Law

With the return of warm weather there has been an increase in the number of recreational and non-recreational fires in Haldimand County. The Haldimand County Fire Department is reminding residents of the Open Air Burn By-law and asking for everyone’s cooperation to ensure that outdoor fires are safe and controlled. During this hot & humid weather, any burning should be limited to recreational fires.

Recreational fires are allowed in all areas without a permit as long as the fire meets all of the regulations set out in the Open Air Burn By-law. These regulations include, but are not limited to: ensuring the fire is contained and supervised at all times and that it is set back at least 10 meters from combustible buildings/structures. A means of extinguishing the fire must be available and measures must be in place to ensure that no one is adversely affected by the products of combustion (smoke and odours).

Non-recreational fires are only permitted in certain areas of the County and require a burn permit that can be purchased at all County offices. Non-recreational fires must meet all of the regulations set out in the by-law. These regulations include, but are not limited to: ensuring fires are supervised at all times and contained to an area not exceeding 6 meters by 6 meters. Non-recreational fires must also be set back at least 60 meters from all buildings, roadways and anything combustible.

Open air fires that are not conducted according to the by-law present potential safety hazards. Anyone conducting an open air fire that violates the by-law are subject to fines, provincial prosecution and recovery of costs required to respond to and/or extinguish the fire.