News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: June 24th, 2020

June 24, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 60 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release once (1) day a week, on Wednesday’s unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials, or AHS on regional cases.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

As cases have now been confirmed within the Vulcan County region, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

With the confirmation of a confirmed case within our region, please remain vigilant in the practices that have been established.

Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 44 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total number of cases to 7,825. There has been a total of 153 fatalities as a result of COVID-19. There have been a total of 7,134 recoveries to date, with 538 active cases. There have been a total of 409,352 tests completed in Alberta.

There are three confirmed cases within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Alberta Relaunch Strategy – Phase Two

Stage 2 will allow additional businesses and services to reopen and resume operations starting June 12 with 2 metre physical distancing requirements and other public health guidelines in place.
Business operators, sport and recreation services can determine if they are ready to open and ensure all guidance for workplaces is met.

What can open with RESTRICTIONS:

  • K-12 Schools, for requested diploma exams and summer school, following guidance
  • Libraries
  • More Surgeries
  • Wellness services such as massage, acupuncture, and reflexology
  • Personal services (esthetics, cosmetics skin and body treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxing, facial treatments, artificial tanning
  • Movie theatres & theatres
  • Community Halls
  • Team Sports
  • Indoor Recreation, fitness and sports, including gyms and arenas
  • Pools for leisure
  • VLTs in restaurants and bars
  • Bingo halls & Casinos (but not table games)
  • Instrumental concerts
  • Provincial campgrounds at full capacity

Events and Gatherings can be Larger in Stage Two

  • 50 people maximum: indoor social gatherings, including wedding and funeral receptions, and birthday parties
  • 100 people maximum: outdoor events and indoor seated/audience events, including wedding and funeral ceremonies
  • No cap on the number of people (with public health measures in place):
    • worship gatherings
    • restaurant, cafes, lounges and bars
    • casinos
    • bingo halls
  • More flexibility for ‘cohort’ groups – small groups of people whose members do not always keep 2 metres apart:
    • a household can increase its close interactions with other households to a maximum of 15 people
    • performers can have a cohort of up to 50 people (cast members or performers) o sports teams can play in region-only cohorts of up to 50 players (mini leagues) o people could be part of a sports/performing and household cohort.

Still Not Approved in Stage Two:

  • Social gatherings that exceed above listed maximums
  • Regular in-school classes for kindergarten to Grade 12. Classes will resume September 2020
  • Vocal concerts (as singing carries a higher risk of transmission)
  • Major festivals and concerts, large conferences, trade shows and events (as these are non-seated social events and/or vocal concerts)
  • Nightclubs
  • Amusement parks
  • Hookah lounges (permitted for food and drink only)
  • Major sporting events and tournaments
  • Non-essential travel outside the province is not recommended – this won’t be lifted until stage 3 of the relaunch strategy.

The success of Stage 2 will determine when Alberta progresses to Stage 3. Factors are active cases, health- care system capacity, hospitalization and intensive care unit (ICU) cases, and infection rates.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

Provincial Measures and Indicators of COVID-19 Regional Risks

There are two indicators the Province is using as measures on how regions are doing, with three classifications:

  • Open
    • low level of risk, no additional restrictions in place
    • less than 50 active cases per 100,000
  • Watch
    • the province is monitoring the risk and discussing with local government(s) and other community leaders the possible need for additional health measures
    • at least 10 active cases and more than 50 active cases per 100,000
  • Enhanced
    • risk levels require enhanced public health measures to control the spread
    • informed by local context Currently our regions falls within the open category.
Federal Government
  • Tassi, Minister of Labour, announced changes to extend time periods for temporary layoffs to allow employers more time to recall laid-off employees.
  • For employees laid off prior to March 31, 2020, the time period is extended by six months or to December 30, 2020, whichever occurs first.
  • For employees laid off between March 31, 2020, and September 30, 2020, the time period is extended until December 30, 2020, unless a later recall date was provided in a written notice at the time of the layoff.
  • Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, today announced $16 million in federal investments to support the tourism industry across Atlantic Canada.
  • Minister Joly also announced financial assistance totaling over $30M for tourism in Quebec, in addition to existing measures. 

Alberta

  • Environmental reporting temporarily paused by the government during the provincial public health emergency will resume on July 15, four weeks earlier than planned.

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

  • Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
  • Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

June 24, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: June 18th, 2020

June 18, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 60 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release once (1) day a week, on Wednesday’s unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials, or AHS on regional cases.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

As cases have now been confirmed within the Vulcan County region, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

With the confirmation of a confirmed case within our region, please remain vigilant in the practices that have been established.

Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 35 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total number of cases to 7,530. There has been a total of 152 fatalities as a result of COVID-19. There have been a total of 6,938 recoveries to date, with 489 active cases. There have been a total of 349,836 tests completed in Alberta.

There are three confirmed cases within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Alberta Relaunch Strategy – Phase Two

Stage 2 will allow additional businesses and services to reopen and resume operations starting June 12 with 2 metre physical distancing requirements and other public health guidelines in place.
Business operators, sport and recreation services can determine if they are ready to open and ensure all guidance for workplaces is met.

What can open with RESTRICTIONS:

  • K-12 Schools, for requested diploma exams and summer school, following guidance
  • Libraries
  • More Surgeries
  • Wellness services such as massage, acupuncture, and reflexology
  • Personal services (esthetics, cosmetics skin and body treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxing, facial treatments, artificial tanning
  • Movie theatres & theatres
  • Community Halls
  • Team Sports
  • Indoor Recreation, fitness and sports, including gyms and arenas
  • Pools for leisure
  • VLTs in restaurants and bars
  • Bingo halls & Casinos (but not table games)
  • Instrumental concerts
  • Provincial campgrounds at full capacity

Events and Gatherings can be Larger in Stage Two

  • 50 people maximum: indoor social gatherings, including wedding and funeral receptions, and birthday parties
  • 100 people maximum: outdoor events and indoor seated/audience events, including wedding and funeral ceremonies
  • No cap on the number of people (with public health measures in place):
    • worship gatherings
    • restaurant, cafes, lounges and bars
    • casinos
    • bingo halls
  • More flexibility for ‘cohort’ groups – small groups of people whose members do not always keep 2 metres apart:
    • a household can increase its close interactions with other households to a maximum of 15 people
    • performers can have a cohort of up to 50 people (cast members or performers) o sports teams can play in region-only cohorts of up to 50 players (mini leagues) o people could be part of a sports/performing and household cohort.

Still Not Approved in Stage Two:

  • Social gatherings that exceed above listed maximums
  • Regular in-school classes for kindergarten to Grade 12. Classes will resume September 2020
  • Vocal concerts (as singing carries a higher risk of transmission)
  • Major festivals and concerts, large conferences, trade shows and events (as these are non-seated social events and/or vocal concerts)
  • Nightclubs
  • Amusement parks
  • Hookah lounges (permitted for food and drink only)
  • Major sporting events and tournaments
  • Non-essential travel outside the province is not recommended – this won’t be lifted until stage 3 of the relaunch strategy.

The success of Stage 2 will determine when Alberta progresses to Stage 3. Factors are active cases, health- care system capacity, hospitalization and intensive care unit (ICU) cases, and infection rates.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

Provincial Measures and Indicators of COVID-19 Regional Risks

There are two indicators the Province is using as measures on how regions are doing, with three classifications:

  • Open
    • low level of risk, no additional restrictions in place
    • less than 50 active cases per 100,000
  • Watch
    • the province is monitoring the risk and discussing with local government(s) and other community leaders the possible need for additional health measures
    • at least 10 active cases and more than 50 active cases per 100,000
  • Enhanced
    • risk levels require enhanced public health measures to control the spread
    • informed by local context Currently our regions falls within the open category.
Federal Government

Alberta

  • Bill 24, the COVID-19 Pandemic Response Statutes Amendment Act, passed first reading in the Alberta Legislative Assembly today. The bill proposes amendments to 15 acts across seven ministries to support Albertans as the province continues to reopen.
  • The proposed amendments will allow some pandemic response efforts to continue and introduce new measures to support the safe and successful reopening of Alberta’s economy.
  • The Government of Alberta has announced that following the successful reopening of the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the Royal Alberta Museum, more provincial historic sites and museums will reopen on June 20 as part of stage two of Alberta’s relaunch strategy.
  • The province is also providing support to assist overnight camps for children and youth so they can be ready to open in 2021. Under the Overnight Camps (for Children and Youth) Facility Overhead Funding Program, non-profit organizations that own or operate overnight camps and meet criteria will be able to apply for a one-time grant to help with ongoing facility costs so they can open next year.

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

  • Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
  • Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

June 18, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: June 16th, 2020

June 16, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 60 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release two (2) days a week. All updates moving forward will be released on Tuesday and Thursday of each week, unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials during their daily updates.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

As cases have now been confirmed within the Vulcan County region, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

With the confirmation of a confirmed case within our region, please remain vigilant in the practices that have been established.

Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 35 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total number of cases to 7,482. There has been a total of 151 fatalities as a result of COVID-19. There have been a total of 6,882 recoveries to date, with 449 active cases. There have been a total of 349,836 tests completed in Alberta. 

There are three confirmed cases within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Alberta Relaunch Strategy – Phase Two

Stage 2 will allow additional businesses and services to reopen and resume operations starting June 12 with 2 metre physical distancing requirements and other public health guidelines in place.
Business operators, sport and recreation services can determine if they are ready to open and ensure all guidance for workplaces is met.

What can open with RESTRICTIONS:

  • K-12 Schools, for requested diploma exams and summer school, following guidance
  • Libraries
  • More Surgeries
  • Wellness services such as massage, acupuncture, and reflexology
  • Personal services (esthetics, cosmetics skin and body treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxing, facial treatments, artificial tanning
  • Movie theatres & theatres
  • Community Halls
  • Team Sports
  • Indoor Recreation, fitness and sports, including gyms and arenas
  • Pools for leisure
  • VLTs in restaurants and bars
  • Bingo halls & Casinos (but not table games)
  • Instrumental concerts
  • Provincial campgrounds at full capacity

Events and Gatherings can be Larger in Stage Two

  • 50 people maximum: indoor social gatherings, including wedding and funeral receptions, and birthday parties
  • 100 people maximum: outdoor events and indoor seated/audience events, including wedding and funeral ceremonies
  • No cap on the number of people (with public health measures in place):
    • worship gatherings
    • restaurant, cafes, lounges and bars
    • casinos
    • bingo halls
  • More flexibility for ‘cohort’ groups – small groups of people whose members do not always keep 2 metres apart:
    • a household can increase its close interactions with other households to a maximum of 15 people
    • performers can have a cohort of up to 50 people (cast members or performers) o sports teams can play in region-only cohorts of up to 50 players (mini leagues) o people could be part of a sports/performing and household cohort.

Still Not Approved in Stage Two:

  • Social gatherings that exceed above listed maximums
  • Regular in-school classes for kindergarten to Grade 12. Classes will resume September 2020
  • Vocal concerts (as singing carries a higher risk of transmission)
  • Major festivals and concerts, large conferences, trade shows and events (as these are non-seated social events and/or vocal concerts)
  • Nightclubs
  • Amusement parks
  • Hookah lounges (permitted for food and drink only)
  • Major sporting events and tournaments
  • Non-essential travel outside the province is not recommended – this won’t be lifted until stage 3 of the relaunch strategy.

The success of Stage 2 will determine when Alberta progresses to Stage 3. Factors are active cases, health- care system capacity, hospitalization and intensive care unit (ICU) cases, and infection rates.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

Federal Government
  • Prime Minister Trudeau (PM) announced that applications for the “Surplus Food Rescue Program” opened today for businesses that have an excess of food due to the impacts of COVID-19.
  • Minister of Finance Bill Morneau announced that as of Friday, June 19, 2020, applications will be accepted so that more small businesses can access the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA)COVID-19 Relief | Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) | EDC. Owner-operated small businesses that had been ineligible for the program due to their lack of payroll, sole proprietors receiving business income directly, as well as family-owned corporations remunerating in the form of dividends rather than payroll will become eligible this week.
  • The federal government has reached an agreement with the United States to extend border restrictions until July 21.
  • The federal government has announced that the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) will be extended through the summer for an additional 8 weeks, meaning the program will be available for a total of 24 weeks.

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

  • Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
  • Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

June 16, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: June 10th, 2020

June 11, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 60 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release two (2) days a week. All updates moving forward will be released on Tuesday and Thursday of each week, unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials during their daily updates.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

While the number of daily confirmed cases is remaining relatively flat, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

With the confirmation of a confirmed case within our region, please remain vigilant in the practices that have been established.

Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 40 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total number of cases to 7,316. There has been a total of 149 fatalities as a result of COVID-19. There have been a total of 6,788 recoveries to date, with 379 active cases. There have been a total of 317,402 tests completed in Alberta.

There is a confirmed case within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Alberta Relaunch Strategy – Phase Two

Stage 2 will allow additional businesses and services to reopen and resume operations starting June 12 with 2 metre physical distancing requirements and other public health guidelines in place.
Business operators, sport and recreation services can determine if they are ready to open and ensure all guidance for workplaces is met.

What can open with RESTRICTIONS:

  • K-12 Schools, for requested diploma exams and summer school, following guidance
  • Libraries
  • More Surgeries
  • Wellness services such as massage, acupuncture, and reflexology
  • Personal services (esthetics, cosmetics skin and body treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxing, facial treatments, artificial tanning
  • Movie theatres & theatres
  • Community Halls
  • Team Sports
  • Indoor Recreation, fitness and sports, including gyms and arenas
  • Pools for leisure
  • VLTs in restaurants and bars
  • Bingo halls & Casinos (but not table games)
  • Instrumental concerts
  • Provincial campgrounds at full capacity

Events and Gatherings can be Larger in Stage Two

  • 50 people maximum: indoor social gatherings, including wedding and funeral receptions, and birthday parties
  • 100 people maximum: outdoor events and indoor seated/audience events, including wedding and funeral ceremonies
  • No cap on the number of people (with public health measures in place):
    • worship gatherings
    • restaurant, cafes, lounges and bars
    • casinos
    • bingo halls
  • More flexibility for ‘cohort’ groups – small groups of people whose members do not always keep 2 metres apart:
    • a household can increase its close interactions with other households to a maximum of 15 people
    • performers can have a cohort of up to 50 people (cast members or performers) o sports teams can play in region-only cohorts of up to 50 players (mini leagues) o people could be part of a sports/performing and household cohort.

Still Not Approved in Stage Two:

  • Social gatherings that exceed above listed maximums
  • Regular in-school classes for kindergarten to Grade 12. Classes will resume September 2020
  • Vocal concerts (as singing carries a higher risk of transmission)
  • Major festivals and concerts, large conferences, trade shows and events (as these are non-seated social events and/or vocal concerts)
  • Nightclubs
  • Amusement parks
  • Hookah lounges (permitted for food and drink only)
  • Major sporting events and tournaments
  • Non-essential travel outside the province is not recommended – this won’t be lifted until stage 3 of the relaunch strategy

 

The success of Stage 2 will determine when Alberta progresses to Stage 3. Factors are active cases, health- care system capacity, hospitalization and intensive care unit (ICU) cases, and infection rates.

Canada/US Border Closure

An agreement has been reached between Canada and the United States to keep the border closed to all non-essential travel for another month.

The extension on the existing agreement means that the border restrictions will stay in place until June 21, even as parts of both countries begin gradually reopening. The agreement, as it stands, exempts the flow of trade and commerce, as well as vital health-care workers such as nurses who live and work on opposite sides of the border. Tourists and cross-border visits remain prohibited.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

Federal Government
  • The Prime Minister announced that the federal government will implement a limited travel exemption at the Canada-U.S. border. This exemption will allow immediate family members of citizens or permanent residents to enter the country. The exemption includes spouses, children, parents or guardians. The Prime Minister noted that the 14-day quarantine rule still applies to those entering the country.
  • Canadians with disabilities will be sent a one-time tax-free payment of up to $600 to help offset the financial pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic. This new financial aid will go to all who are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit, as of June 1.
  • The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) indicated that it intends to tighten rules for offering mortgage insurance, starting July 1, after forecasting declines of between 9% and 18% in home prices over the next 12 months due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Changes include:
    • CMHC is establishing a minimum credit score of 680 instead of the current 600;
    • CMHC will limit total gross debt servicing ratios to its standard requirement of 35% annual income, compared with the current threshold of 39%.
    • CMHC will limit total debt servicing to 42%, compared to the current 44% .
  • Health Canada is recalling six types of hand sanitizers sold in Canadian stores that are made with industrial-grade ethanol. The recall, issued on June 6, advises anyone with the products in their home to stop using them immediately and consult a healthcare professional if they experience health concerns.

Alberta

  • Today, the provincial government distributed 20 million masks at 600 Tim Hortons, McDonald’s and A&W drive-thrus across Alberta. The Government of Alberta is also planning to supply masks to places of worship, as well as provide another round of 20 million masks in the future.
  • On June 6, Alberta Health Services relaxed visitation guidelines at hospitals in Alberta. Details include:
    • For outpatient and emergency department/urgent care, patients may now have one person accompany them.
    • For acute care settings, patients may now have two people accompany them.
    • For end of life situations, two visitors are now permitted if there is sufficient room to allow for physical distancing.
  • The Government of Alberta is looking for more landlords to participate in the Alberta-Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance program, which the province has committed $67-million towards.

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

  • Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
  • Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

June 12, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: June 4th, 2020

June 9, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 59 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release two (2) days a week. All updates moving forward will be released on Tuesday and Thursday of each week, unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials during their daily updates.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

While the number of daily confirmed cases is remaining relatively flat, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

With the confirmation of a confirmed case within our region, please remain vigilant in the practices that have been established.

Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 27 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total number of cases to 7, 229. There has been a total of 151 fatalities as a result of COVID-19. There have been a total of 6,722 recoveries to date, with 356 active cases. There have been a total of 303,689 tests completed in Alberta.

There is a confirmed case within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Alberta Relaunch Strategy – Phase Two

Stage 2 will allow additional businesses and services to reopen and resume operations starting June 12 with 2 metre physical distancing requirements and other public health guidelines in place.
Business operators, sport and recreation services can determine if they are ready to open and ensure all guidance for workplaces is met.

What can open with RESTRICTIONS:

  • K-12 Schools, for requested diploma exams and summer school, following guidance
  • Libraries
  • More Surgeries
  • Wellness services such as massage, acupuncture, and reflexology
  • Personal services (esthetics, cosmetics skin and body treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxing, facial treatments, artificial tanning
  • Movie theatres & theatres
  • Community Halls
  • Team Sports
  • Indoor Recreation, fitness and sports, including gyms and arenas
  • Pools for leisure
  • VLTs in restaurants and bars
  • Bingo halls & Casinos (but not table games)
  • Instrumental concerts
  • Provincial campgrounds at full capacity

Events and Gatherings can be Larger in Stage Two

  • 50 people maximum: indoor social gatherings, including wedding and funeral receptions, and birthday parties
  • 100 people maximum: outdoor events and indoor seated/audience events, including wedding and funeral ceremonies
  • No cap on the number of people (with public health measures in place):
    • worship gatherings
    • restaurant, cafes, lounges and bars
    • casinos
    • bingo halls
  • More flexibility for ‘cohort’ groups – small groups of people whose members do not always keep 2 metres apart:
    • a household can increase its close interactions with other households to a maximum of 15 people
    • performers can have a cohort of up to 50 people (cast members or performers) o sports teams can play in region-only cohorts of up to 50 players (mini leagues) o people could be part of a sports/performing and household cohort.

Still Not Approved in Stage Two:

  • Social gatherings that exceed above listed maximums
  • Regular in-school classes for kindergarten to Grade 12. Classes will resume September 2020
  • Vocal concerts (as singing carries a higher risk of transmission)
  • Major festivals and concerts, large conferences, trade shows and events (as these are non-seated social events and/or vocal concerts)
  • Nightclubs
  • Amusement parks
  • Hookah lounges (permitted for food and drink only)
  • Major sporting events and tournaments
  • Non-essential travel outside the province is not recommended – this won’t be lifted until stage 3 of the relaunch strategy

 

The success of Stage 2 will determine when Alberta progresses to Stage 3. Factors are active cases, health- care system capacity, hospitalization and intensive care unit (ICU) cases, and infection rates.

Canada/US Border Closure

An agreement has been reached between Canada and the United States to keep the border closed to all non-essential travel for another month.

The extension on the existing agreement means that the border restrictions will stay in place until June 21, even as parts of both countries begin gradually reopening. The agreement, as it stands, exempts the flow of trade and commerce, as well as vital health-care workers such as nurses who live and work on opposite sides of the border. Tourists and cross-border visits remain prohibited.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

Federal Government
  • The Prime Minister announced that the federal government will implement a limited travel exemption at the Canada-U.S. border. This exemption will allow immediate family members of citizens or permanent residents to enter the country. The exemption includes spouses, children, parents or guardians. The Prime Minister noted that the 14-day quarantine rule still applies to those entering the country.
  • Canadians with disabilities will be sent a one-time tax-free payment of up to $600 to help offset the financial pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic. This new financial aid will go to all who are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit, as of June 1.
  • The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) indicated that it intends to tighten rules for offering mortgage insurance, starting July 1, after forecasting declines of between 9% and 18% in home prices over the next 12 months due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Changes include:
    • CMHC is establishing a minimum credit score of 680 instead of the current 600;
    • CMHC will limit total gross debt servicing ratios to its standard requirement of 35% annual income, compared with the current threshold of 39%.
    • CMHC will limit total debt servicing to 42%, compared to the current 44% .
  • Health Canada is recalling six types of hand sanitizers sold in Canadian stores that are made with industrial-grade ethanol. The recall, issued on June 6, advises anyone with the products in their home to stop using them immediately and consult a healthcare professional if they experience health concerns.

Alberta

  • Today, the provincial government distributed 20 million masks at 600 Tim Hortons, McDonald’s and A&W drive-thrus across Alberta. The Government of Alberta is also planning to supply masks to places of worship, as well as provide another round of 20 million masks in the future.
  • On June 6, Alberta Health Services relaxed visitation guidelines at hospitals in Alberta. Details include:
    • For outpatient and emergency department/urgent care, patients may now have one person accompany them.
    • For acute care settings, patients may now have two people accompany them.
    • For end of life situations, two visitors are now permitted if there is sufficient room to allow for physical distancing.
  • The Government of Alberta is looking for more landlords to participate in the Alberta-Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance program, which the province has committed $67-million towards.

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

  • Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
  • Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

June 9, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: June 4th, 2020

June 4, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 58 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release two (2) days a week. All updates moving forward will be released on Tuesday and Thursday of each week, unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials during their daily updates.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

 

While the number of daily confirmed cases is remaining relatively flat, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 19 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total to 7,076. There are no new reported fatalities as a result of COVID-19. A total of 271,298 Albertans have been tested. There have been a total of 6,587 recoveries to date, with 344 active cases.

There continue to be no confirmed cases within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region, although testing has been undertaken for those with symptoms. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Canada/US Border Closure

An agreement has been reached between Canada and the United States to keep the border closed to all non-essential travel for another month.

The extension on the existing agreement means that the border restrictions will stay in place until June 21, even as parts of both countries begin gradually reopening. The agreement, as it stands, exempts the flow of trade and commerce, as well as vital health-care workers such as nurses who live and work on opposite sides of the border. Tourists and cross-border visits remain prohibited.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

Federal Updates
  • The Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced the names of nine business leaders who will join the new and recently announced Industry Strategy Council. The Council provides a forum for the Government to hear from and collaborate with well-respected industry leaders to assess the scope and depth of COVID-19’s impact on industries and to understand specific sectoral pressures.
  • The Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, announced the launch of a call for proposals under the newly modernized Enabling Accessibility Fund – small projects component. The modernization of the program will help to better meet the needs of persons with disabilities in building more accessible communities and workplaces, and provide more flexibility to organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

  • Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
  • Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

June 8, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: June 2nd, 2020

June 2, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 57 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release two (2) days a week. All updates moving forward will be released on Tuesday and Thursday of each week, unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials during their daily updates.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

While the number of daily confirmed cases is remaining relatively flat, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 13 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total to 7,057. There are no new reported fatalities as a result of COVID-19. A total of 266,301 Albertans have been tested. There have been a total of 6,537 recoveries to date, with 377 active cases.

There continue to be no confirmed cases within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region, although testing has been undertaken for those with symptoms. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Canada/US Border Closure

An agreement has been reached between Canada and the United States to keep the border closed to all non-essential travel for another month.

The extension on the existing agreement means that the border restrictions will stay in place until June 21, even as parts of both countries begin gradually reopening. The agreement, as it stands, exempts the flow of trade and commerce, as well as vital health-care workers such as nurses who live and work on opposite sides of the border. Tourists and cross-border visits remain prohibited.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

  • Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
  • Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

June 3, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: May 28th, 2020

May 28, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 56 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release two (2) days a week. All updates moving forward will be released on Tuesday and Thursday of each week, unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials during their daily updates.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

While the number of daily confirmed cases is remaining relatively flat, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

Tips for Wearing Masks
Tips for Washing Hands and Surfaces
Tips on Public Distancing, Touching Your Face and Wearing Gloves
When to See the Doctor
Protect Our Communities
Here For You
Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 29 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total to 6,955. Fatalities resulting from COVID-19 are 143. A total of 245,949 Albertans have been tested. There have been a total of 6,160 recoveries to date.

There continue to be no confirmed cases within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region, although testing has been undertaken for those with symptoms. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Canada/US Border Closure

An agreement has been reached between Canada and the United States to keep the border closed to all non-essential travel for another month.

The extension on the existing agreement means that the border restrictions will stay in place until June 21, even as parts of both countries begin gradually reopening. The agreement, as it stands, exempts the flow of trade and commerce, as well as vital health-care workers such as nurses who live and work on opposite sides of the border. Tourists and cross-border visits remain prohibited.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

Limit outdoor gatherings to no more than 50 people
Stay home and away from others if exhibiting symptoms
If participating in activities with people from outside your household or cohort family
maintain a physical distance of 2 metres at all times
refrain from sharing equipment
Federal Government

The federal government has received requests from both Quebec and Ontario to extend the periods of deployment for the members of the Canadian Armed Forces who are providing support.
Prime Minister Trudeau will join the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, and UN Secretary- General António Guterres, in convening a special high-level meeting on May 28, 2020. Discussions will focus on expanding liquidity in the global economy and maintaining financial stability while protecting the improvements being made in helping less-developed countries.
During the Tuesday morning press conference, Prime Minister Trudeau announced that the federal government has signed a contract with GM to produce 10 million facemasks. This contract will also provide jobs for workers in Oshawa where production has already begun.
The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has announced an investment of up to $9.2 million to enhance the Youth Employment and Skills Program and will fund up to 700 new positions for youth in the agriculture industry. The additional funding will help the agriculture industry attract Canadians between the ages of 15 to 30, to assist with labour shortages brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Department of National Defense announced the first series of calls for innovation that are focusing on the following three challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic:
Viable and effective processes and methods for safely and rapidly decontaminating enclosed work environments (e.g., buildings and modes of transportation) containing sensitive equipment;
Innovative material and designs to aid in decontamination of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), operational clothing and equipment for personnel responding to events involving biological hazards; and
Data gathering solutions to support the early detection and community-based monitoring of outbreaks of contagious diseases.
Alberta

Alberta MLAs return to the legislature on May 27, 2020, where at least 10 pieces of legislation will be introduced this session, including:
Affirming parental rights to make important choices about their children’s education;
Strengthening public safety; and
Reducing red tape.
As of July 1, 2020, businesses and non-AHS organizations will be required to access PPE directly through suppliers, as many companies are now developing and supplying PPE.
Beginning in June, the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta will be hearing some criminal trials in- person and via the Webex video conference. The court will begin by hearing cancelled trials that were originally scheduled between March 16 to June 26.
The Town of Banff is once again welcoming tourists following a two month state of local emergency, however Banff National Park will not have services available until early June.
The Government of Alberta has expanded the hairstylist apprenticeship program to include barber certification, to help get Albertans back to work sooner during the COVID-19 pandemic.

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322
Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

May 28, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: May 26th, 2020

May 26, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 55 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release two (2) days a week. All updates moving forward will be released on Tuesday and Thursday of each week, unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials during their daily updates.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

While the number of daily confirmed cases is remaining relatively flat, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 22 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total to 6,901. Fatalities resulting from COVID-19 are 139. A total of 242,781 Albertans have been tested. There have been a total of 6,048 recoveries to date.

There continue to be no confirmed cases within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region, although testing has been undertaken for those with symptoms. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Canada/US Border Closure

An agreement has been reached between Canada and the United States to keep the border closed to all non-essential travel for another month.

The extension on the existing agreement means that the border restrictions will stay in place until June 21, even as parts of both countries begin gradually reopening. The agreement, as it stands, exempts the flow of trade and commerce, as well as vital health-care workers such as nurses who live and work on opposite sides of the border. Tourists and cross-border visits remain prohibited.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

Federal Government

Alberta

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

  • Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
  • Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

May 26, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News

VCREMP COVID – 19 Update: May 21st, 2020

May 21, 2020

RE: COVID-19 Update 54 (New Information in BLUE)

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership updates will now be release two (2) days a week. All updates moving forward will be released on Tuesday and Thursday of each week, unless urgent messaging comes from Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health or Government Officials during their daily updates.

Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partners are continuing to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Alberta. The latest Government of Alberta media releases can be found at https://www.alberta.ca/news.aspx

All Vulcan County Fire Halls are closed to the public until further notice. The municipal offices of Vulcan County, the villages of Arrowwood, Carmangay, Champion, Lomond and Milo remain closed to the public while business operations are continuing. The Town of Vulcan municipal office remains open, however, we are urging the public to use municipal websites, email and telephone to answer their inquiries.

While the number of daily confirmed cases is remaining relatively flat, it is imperative to follow proper personal hygiene and cleaning practices. Please follow these guidelines and watch your municipal websites for further updates.

Everyone, even persons not exhibiting symptoms or requiring mandatory self-isolation, is strongly encouraged to limit outings to a minimum and stay home; observe social distancing and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands.

The Vulcan County Regional Emergency Management Partnership has put together a series of videos on COVID-19 related themes:

Cases in Alberta and Vulcan County

The Government of Alberta is taking aggressive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Albertans are asked to be vigilant to prevent intensive care units from being overwhelmed.

For today, 33 new cases have been confirmed bringing the total to 6,768. Fatalities resulting from COVID-19 are 132. A total of 225,588 Albertans have been tested. There have been a total of 5,710 recoveries to date.

There continue to be no confirmed cases within Vulcan County or the urban municipalities within its region, although testing has been undertaken for those with symptoms. Vulcan County is in the Calgary Health Zone here 67% of all confirmed Covid-19 infections are located in Alberta.

Alberta uses modelling to anticipate the number of COVID-19 cases over the coming months. Revised modelling was provided on April 28th. This helps us make decisions and prepare hospitals to care for critical and acute patients. A Sprung Field Hospital has been completed at Foothills Hospital should the province realize a spike in Covid-19 hospitalizations.

Canada/US Border Closure

An agreement has been reached between Canada and the United States to keep the border closed to all non-essential travel for another month.

The extension on the existing agreement means that the border restrictions will stay in place until June 21, even as parts of both countries begin gradually reopening. The agreement, as it stands, exempts the flow of trade and commerce, as well as vital health-care workers such as nurses who live and work on opposite sides of the border. Tourists and cross-border visits remain prohibited.

Low German Mennonite Community Resource Inventory

Throughout the pandemic response in this province, Alberta Health Services has been maintaining an inventory of resources specifically tailored for the Low German Mennonite Community. To put things in perspective, one fifth of our population base in Vulcan County speaks Low German as a first language.

Barons-Eureka-Warner Family and Community Support Services has a YouTube Channel that covers a wide range of subjects potentially of interest to Low German speakers. There is information on Covid-19 and personal hygiene, as well as other video guides on a wide range of subjects unrelated to the pandemic.

Guidance on Outdoor Activities

With the weather warming up, everyone is eager to go outside for fresh air.
Albertans are encouraged to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you follow all public health orders to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19.

Long Term Care, Supportive Living, and Congregate Living

  • As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, AHS is taking additional steps to ensure those most at risk of contracting the virus are protected.
  • Visitors may not enter any continuing care facility (long-term care or licensed supportive living), except for visits from a designated essential visitor:
    • when a resident is dying
    • where, in rare situations, the resident’s quality of life or care needs cannot be met without the visitor’s assistance
  • Up to two visitors may attend to a resident in a continuing care centre who is at the end of their life. This is defined as up to two weeks before death, but it is understood that estimates are imprecise.
    • Visitors must be verified and undergo a health screening prior to entering the facility. They are also required to wear a mask during their visit and maintain physical distancing.
  • Residents who are not in isolation may visit outdoors with a designated essential visitor and one other person. However, physical distancing must be practiced and all visitors must wear a mask or some other form of face covering.
  • Visits are allowed for patients in maternity care and children who are patients in acute care/outpatient settings.
    • Again, visitors must be verified and undergo a health screening prior to entering the facility. They are also required to wear a mask during their visit.
  • Families and friends of those in these facilities are encouraged think of how they can support and encourage their loved ones through this difficult time without visiting.
  • For more information, visit https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/topics/Page17001.aspx.

811 Health Link

Once again, people experiencing 7symptoms are to take the online self-assessment. As a further reminder, 811-health link is for those who are feeling ill and seeking advice. DO NOT call 811 to report non-compliance of Public Health Orders; these can be reported to the Environmental Health Complaint Link or by calling (403) 943-2288.

If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others

  • Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2643
  • Addiction Help Line at 1-866-332-2322

Local Programs and Initiatives

Vulcan County – Health & Wellness Foundation
Vulcan – Medical Recruitment
Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society

Above information sourced from:
https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=70009006E7A24-0CB0-DB76-8FDE7FAC19DBB875

May 21, 2020 in Community, Emergency Services, Village News