Starting next week, the Town of Espanola will have the means to see how residents are doing during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Mayor Jill Beer says the town will be implementing the Neighbourhood Watch Window Identification Program next week.
She says volunteers will be distributed packages of coloured paper with a set of instructions to doorsteps over the next week.
Beer says the packages contain four sheets: red for urgent care, blue meaning in self-isolation by choice or requirements, yellow meaning food or medication is needed and green meaning the residents are okay.
Beer adds the town’s Emergency Response Team subcommittee is overseeing the implementation of the program.
The program will also be employed as a communication back-up plan in the event of a sustained communications disruption of more than six hours with no internet, phone, email, or cell service.
Residents are asked to place the coloured sheet of paper that describes their situation in a window that is easily visible from the street. If the resident does not have a window visible from the street they can insert the paper into a zip lock bag or plastic covering and tie it to the 911 sign, a tree or post at the end of the driveway. If you live in an apartment or apartment building, post the coloured paper where it will be visible to others.
Neighbours are asked to look out for one another and if they see a coloured paper in a window please assist by knocking on the door, maintaining the recommended 6-foot physical distance to ask if assistance is needed.
If the person requires assistance beyond your means you are to call 911. In the event of no telephone service, drive to the OPP office or Espanola Fire Department to report the concern in person.
For general inquiries related to this program please call 869-3888.
https://www.espanola.ca/mediareleases/item/1560-neighbourhood-watch-window-id-program?