As Ontario tiptoes cautiously out of the public health restrictions it set to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus, things appear to be on the upswing.
There’s still a way to go conceivably, but since December 15, 2020, 81% of adults in the province have gotten their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 68% are fully vaccinated. Meanwhile, 65% of young Ontarians between the ages of 12 and 17 have received a single dose and 41% are fully vaccinated.
That’s encouraging stuff. We’re repeatedly told the best way to beat COVID-19 and get back to a semblance of normalcy requires as many of us who can getting juiced. The vaccination numbers are one reason why on July 16 Ontario moved to the third step of its summer reopening plan. Now we can eat in a restaurant or go to a fitness club or movie theatre again. Capacity restrictions, masking, and physical distance measures still apply, but it seems like a small price to pay versus staying home almost all the time.
Outdoor public gatherings are now allowable with some restrictions. That opens a lot of possibilities even with public health restrictions in place. Here are a few family-friendly things you can do in Ottawa in August:
If you’re planning on taking a road trip or driving to an event in Ottawa, take your time behind the wheel, and keep these driving safety tips in mind:
When was the last time you reviewed your car insurance policy and coverages? Now’s the time to do it, especially if you plan on being behind the wheel more often.
For instance, did you temporarily suspend your road coverage at some point during the pandemic? If so, contact your broker or insurer and let them know you need it reinstated. Otherwise, you may be driving without insurance, which is a serious offence.
Car insurance can be expensive, so do yourself a favour and compare policies and premiums from a broad range of insurers for free. You might be surprised to learn you can save money on your annual premium, and that’s all the more reason to celebrate.