New hotline gets workout from residents reporting emergency violations

Journal Staff Over its first nine days, Sarnia’s COVID-19 hotline received 325 complaints from residents reporting possible emergency order violations. Some 86% of the complaints came via email and 14% by phone, City Hall says.

Journal Staff

Over its first nine days, Sarnia’s COVID-19 hotline received 325 complaints from residents reporting possible emergency order violations.

Some 86% of the complaints came via email and 14% by phone, City Hall says.

One hotline tip led Sarnia Police to charge a 72-year-old man with failing to self-quarantine after returning from a trip out of the country.

The hotline allows the public to file anonymous concern and tips about businesses and individuals contravening the new emergency rules related to:

* Social gatherings on private property

* Non-essential businesses opening

* Failing to self-isolate after returning to Ontario

* Businesses not practicing social distancing and disinfecting

* Individuals and families using closes park spaces and facilities.

The COVID-19 email [email protected] is monitored daily, including weekends.

The phone line 1-877-4-SARNIA (1-877-472-7642) is available Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The service was set up April 1 by the bylaw enforcement department and Sarnia Police Service.