HUMBOLDT — Local police are reporting that they are having no problems with non-compliance when it comes to mandatory mask requirements.
Nov. 19 saw heavier mask requirements in indoor public spaces across the province. Alberta took the same route on Nov. 24, with requirements being put in place in Edmonton and Calgary.
Since that time, media channels in Alberta have seen numerous reports of violence and non-compliance.
With the rules changing, S/Sgt. Al Presler with the Humboldt RCMP said they are more than happy to take an educational stance when they are dealing with people who are not complying with masking policies, however, more often than not people either mask up or leave the establishment if they don’t agree with masking policies.
Current health orders from the province have stated that, “the use of non-medical masks is mandatory in most indoor public places.” This includes, for example, healthcare facilities, long-term care facilities, grocery stores, and pharmacies. Mask use is not mandatory in people’s homes, motel or hotel rooms.
While the order has been out for only 15 days, Presler said he doesn’t know what to expect in the coming weeks when it comes to people continuing mask use. It isn’t a matter of preparing for the worst but just being vigilant to rules that seem to be frequently changing, he said.
“When we got to be aware of what the current laws that are placed that are ever evolving and changing, we’ve on our toes to inform the public or make time to make reference to the Saskatchewan Health Authority website for the most recent information there.”
The authority’s website is the place to go for the most accurate information and Presler encourages everyone to visit the website and to not take information on social media as the truth.
We all want COVID to go away, he said, but people have to remember that we’re all in this together.
