Ottawa to cap crowds at outdoor rinks, hills and trails

The City of Ottawa is instituting a 25-person limit at its outdoor rinks and otherrecreation venues.

On Tuesday, Ottawa's medical officer of health said large crowds at rinks, toboggan hills and ski trails are concerningbecause it's impossible to maintain a safe physical distance in such environments.

Dr. Vera Etches told reporters she would also be issuing an order for the owners and operators of private outdoor recreation venues to enforce the limit. It should take effect in the next day or two, she said.

This order will not affect the Rideau Canal Skateway once it opens because it's managed by the National Capital Commission (NCC), said Ottawa's general manager of emergency and protective servicesAnthony Di Monte. However, the NCC could introduce a similar rule, Di Monte said.

Etches said enforcement will focus on education at first, similar to when the city has introduced other pandemic restrictions.

WATCH | Ottawa trying to prevent outdoor crowding:

Ottawas new outdoor COVID-19 restrictions meant to stop crowding at skating rinks, toboggan hills

4 years ago

Duration 0:57

Dr. Vera Etches, Ottawas medical officer of health, says new capacity limits at outdoor recreation sites are meant to cut down on outdoor COVID-19 transmission, though enforcement efforts will focus on education for now.

The city is currently in the midst ofanother surge in COVID-19 infectionas the provincewide lockdown limits indoor activities. That's forcing more people outdoors for fun and exercise, especially during the recent holiday break.

Last week the citymade masks mandatory around itsoutdoor rinks, and highly recommends skaters wear them on the ice as well.