Staying safe is a priority when planning Thanksgiving celebrations. We can take this opportunity to learn to celebrate holidays differently and make new traditions.

In the interest of reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19, the provincial government is encouraging people to stay in their household now rather than expanding close contact to whomever was in their Social Circle previously.

In addition, Ontario recently reduced the number of people allowed at social gatherings, where people maintain a distance of 2 metres. Indoor gatherings of up to 10 people and outdoor gatherings of up to 25 people are permitted under the new rules.

Some suggestions on how to safely celebrate Thanksgiving this year are: celebrate within the household, limit the time of visits and keep people 6 foot apart, consider outdoor celebrations, and consider virtual celebrations.

“We need to be even more attentive as we are seeing an increase in the number of people in our community, and in communities around us, with COVID-19. Let’s be creative and find new ways to connect with friends and family.” said Dr. Paula Stewart, Medical Officer of Health for the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit

Family members and students should carefully consider the risks of COVID-19 if they plan to come home or visit other areas for the holiday. Stay 6 feet away from people with whom you are staying or visiting.

Stay COVID SMART – Proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, using face coverings/masks, and coughing/sneezing into your arm or elbow are all important in reducing the spread of COVID-19.

For more information about reducing the spread of COVID-19, contact the Health Unit at www.healthunit.org/coronavirus<http://www.healthunit.org/coronavirus>; call 1-800-660-5853 x 2499 or follow LGLHealthunit on Facebook and Twitter.