We Answered All Your Burning Questions About Ontario's New Shutdown
On Thursday, the Ontario government announced that the province will be heading into a shutdown starting this Saturday.
Narcity asked you on Instagram what you want to know about the latest guidelines, and has compiled a list of answers below.
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Are schools still staying open?
On Thursday, the Ontario government announced that schools will remain open under the shutdown order.
Education Minister Stephen Leece announced that in-person learning is "critical for students' mental health & learning."
Childcare centres and post-secondary institutions are also allowed to continue to operate during this time.
Leece has mentioned previously that multiple safety measures will be put in place for when kids return from spring break.
I haven't been to a salon since 2019!! When can I go get a haircut?
Under the new shutdown order, all personal services, including hair salons, will be forced to close their doors across the province.
So if you're looking to get a haircut, you'll have to wait at least 28 days before the shutdown is lifted or do it yourself.
Previously, hair salons were set to open in the grey zone on April 12.
How is this shutdown affecting weddings?
People who are looking to get married during the shutdown still can but at a more restricted level.
According to the Ontario government, if you are having a ceremony indoors, only 15% of the room can be occupied.
However, when it comes to outdoor weddings, there is no limit on the number of people who can gather, as long as they are all able to stay 2 metres apart.
The same rules apply to both religious and funeral services.
Can I still book a hotel?
According to the Ontario government, hotels are allowed to remain open under the new shutdown order.
However, pools and fitness centres in the hotels must remain closed.
Short-term rentals, like cottages, are "only to be provided to individuals who are in need of housing."
Are malls open?
Shopping malls are still allowed to remain open past Saturday, but with some restrictions.
The government states that all shoppers must be actively screened before entering the building and only 25% of a store is allowed to be occupied.
However, indoor dining spaces such as restaurants or food courts must remain closed during this time.
Can I go see my parents?
Currently, the Ontario government is encouraging residents to only stay within their own households and keep 2 metres apart from everyone else.
If you live alone, you are able to join one other household for the shutdown.
However, if you aren't part of your parent's household, you need to keep your distance from them.
Outdoor gatherings are currently permitted with a maximum of five people.