March 20, 2020
Re: COVID 19 Update – LLRIB Emergency Control Group
As we continue to navigate through unfamiliar territory and deal with this Pandemic, our Emergency Response Team has officially activated the LLRIB Emergency Response Plan. As a collective group, we want to assure the LLRIB membership that we are working hard to:
• Provide accurate and current information
• Make decisions based on the best interests of community members
• Address and validate concerns
• Access supplies such as:
o Cleaning and sanitation
o Medications (Tylenol) and Thermometers
o Traditional Medicine packages
o Non-perishable food items
With humility and understanding, we ask for your patience while acquiring these products. We are working with suppliers; however, inventory is scarce for cleaners/hand sanitizers and soaps. At this time, we wish to assure you that the food supply to the north is in tact and trucks are still coming into La Ronge three times per week. It has been requested by the retailers to buy what you need to sustain your family and not buy in bulk as ordering for the stores is limited as well.
We ask that all of our band members stay home and look after your families. It is understandable that you may have to leave your home for groceries or cleaning supplies but in order to “flatten the curve” (reduce the spread of the virus), we need to take measures to ensure we are all taking personal responsibility and limiting the risk of community transmission.
Again, as a reminder, please wash your hands frequently with soap and water as it is best prevention for transmitting the spread of the COVID 19 virus. Use hand sanitizer only in a public place and where soap and water are not accessible.
We strongly encourage you to practice “Social Distancing” by limiting social interactions, including: handshakes, fist pumps, hugs and kisses. We know how awkward that is for the general population as it is a common sign of respect and acknowledgment. In addition to the Government of Saskatchewan-announced restrictions, we are also advising you to avoid all forms of social gatherings such as house parties, card games, home bingos, etc. The importance of social distancing cannot be emphasized enough and is a seriously urgent matter to adhere to.
As the door to door circulation of the initial communication has been completed for the LLRIB communities, it was time for another update. We would like to take this time to reassure you that we are very busy meeting/coordinating and trying address all issues and concerns.
Respectfully,
Josephine Greyeyes/LLRIB Emergency Response Team
Things to Note Regarding COVID 19
Guidelines and definitions
March 20, 2020 – A couple days ago, as the cases of COVID 19 continue to rise provincially, the Government of Saskatchewan declared a “State of Emergency”. The goal is to slow the spread of COVID 19 so the health care system does not become over-burdened. As such, gyms, fitness centers, casinos and bingo halls were closed. Limits on occupancy in restaurants, bars and events were mandated. Residents of Saskatchewan are being advised to not travel out of province. Crown corporations such as SaskPower, SaskTel and Sask Energy are implementing a zero interest 6 month deferral for utilities.
Today, the Government of Saskatchewan initiated new additional restrictions. Of note, the following are effective immediately: No public gatherings of than 25 people in one room, the closure of all nightclubs, bars and lounges, the suspension of in-person classes for primary and secondary educational institutes and restricted visits only at long-term care homes, hospitals, personal care homes and group homes. As well, regarding out-of-country travel, it is now mandatory to self-isolate for 14 days upon arriving back into Canada.
“Our window to flatten the curve is narrow. We have to act now,” Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer Theresa Tam. Following Health and Social Distancing guidelines:
• Practicing proper handwashing (Soap and Water for 20-30 seconds)
• Social Distancing – Staying home and when it is necessary to be in public, staying 1 meter away from any other person
• Self-isolating to limit the spread of any virus and minimize community transmission
• You may not feel ill but if you are in contact you may transmit a virus to someone who is in a vulnerable state; Elders or those who have immune deficiencies
Lac La Ronge Indian Band is following many of these guidelines and limitations
• Closures:
o All LLRIB schools
o JRMCC Hall/Arena/Fitness Centre
o Keethanow Bingo North
o Keethanow Corner Store (Bell’s Point)
o Keethanow Lumber and Furniture
• Cancelling all events which participation would exceed the 25 person limit
• Limiting public access to all LLRIB buildings and public spaces
For general and/or health related questions or to assist an online Self-Assessment for COVID 19, the LLRIBHS Public Health Nurse can be contacted at (306)-425-1720. This is not as an alternative to 811 but a line where the RN can answer frequently asked questions and provide some advice.