'This declaration sends the strongest possible message to our residents to stay home and to change their behaviour.'

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Waterloo Region, and the seven local municipalities, declared a State of Emergency on Wednesday.

It will give the local levels of government the ability to shares resources, personnel, as well as equipment.

It will also allow the region to use and support volunteers to assist with providing critical services, if needed.

A news release states as cases of COVID-19 continue to rise here, the next few days are critical in the region's ongoing efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

"This declaration sends the strongest possible message to our residents to stay home and to change their behaviour." the release went on to say.

Regional Chair Karen Redman and the mayors are simply asking residents to stay home, and only go out to buy essential supplies, or order what you need online.

The province ordered non-essential businesses to close by late Tuesday evening.



For resources including how to help stop the spread of germs, how to self-isolate, self-monitor and social distancing best practices, visit www.regionofwaterloo.ca/ COVID19