Stay-at-home order now in effect across Ontario

 

A stay-at-home order is now in effect across Ontario. 

The directive requires residents to stay home except for essential outings, such as accessing health care, shopping for groceries, or outdoor exercise.

The province has said there's no set definition for what is "essential" because everyone has their own unique circumstances and regional considerations.

There's no limit on how many times people can leave their homes per day, or on how long they can be out.

Premier Doug Ford has urged people to use their "best judgment" in deciding whether to go out. 

But critics say the measure, which was announced on Tuesday as the province enacted a second state of emergency, is vague, particularly given law enforcement officers' ability to fine those not in compliance. 

The order is part of Ontario's effort to combat soaring rates of COVID-19 that officials have warned could soon overwhelm the health system.

As of Wednesday, Ontario was reporting a total of 224,984 COVID-19 diagnoses since the pandemic began. Of those, 29,636 cases were still active, while 5,127 people had died.