Here's What You Need To Know About Outdoor Public Gatherings In Quebec Red Zones
Now that the second "28-day challenge" is well underway in red zones, Quebecers are quite familiar with the rules to follow. However, there is still some confusion around certain measures, such as those for outdoor public gatherings.
With few beautiful fall days remaining, many of us want to enjoy them outdoors, but wonder what we're allowed to do in the red zone — and with whom.
The instructions are clear: private and public gatherings are prohibited in areas on high alert. But this raises questions about what we're actually allowed to do.
On the Quebec government website, you can find concrete answers to questions about outdoor activities. Here are a few examples.
Editor's Choice: Montreal Public Health Wants Quebec To Reopen Gyms Under Certain Conditions
Do I have the right to receive one or more visitors to my yard?
No.
The ministerial decree on this subject is clear. Red zone residents cannot receive visitors from another address at their private residence, cottage or lodging, "whether outside or inside the home."
There is an exception, however, for people who live alone. They are entitled to have one visitor at a time.
Can I go for a walk with someone who doesn't live at the same address?
Yes, but with a few guidelines.
"Where possible, physical distancing of 2 metres must be observed at all times with people who do not live at the same address," says the government.
Am I allowed to see my friends in a park if we are each on our own blanket 2 metres apart?
Yes.
Here, the authorities reiterate that outdoor activities are permitted in the red zone.
"You can see people from other households, provided distancing of 2 metres is observed," reads the statement.
The only downside is that "organized group activities" are not allowed.
For example, you wouldn't be allowed to organize a birthday picnic in a public place if it includes several of your loved ones.
Am I allowed to hike in another red zone?
It's not recommended.
Say you live in Montreal and would like to go hiking in Mont Saint-Hilaire, in Montérégie, and you think it's OK because they are both in the red zone.
The government mentions that even if the alert level is the same, "travelling from one zone to another is not recommended if you live in a red zone."
It should be noted that public health and the provincial government are asking people in red zones to use good judgment and limit social contact as much as possible.
This article was originally published in French on Narcity Québec.
