The Squamish Nation is asking outsiders to stay away from the residential areas of their reserve lands on the North Shore and in the Squamish Valley as the COVID-19 virus threatens their members.

“We are at a critical time in this outbreak, and significant measures must be taken to stop the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus,” the message from Squamish Nation Council issued on Friday read. “Restricting non-essential visitors to our community is an important step in ensuring that our Elders, language speakers, knowledge-keepers, and community members with compromised immune systems can remain protected from this dangerous virus.”

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The communique also asks Squamish members not to invite anyone from outside the community onto their lands during the pandemic.

The limitations do not apply to the nation’s leased lands, and the businesses on them, including Lynnwood and Mosquito Creek marinas, Capilano RV Park, and Park Royal. Health-care professionals are still welcome.

Squamish Nation council is also urging its members stay home, practise social distancing, and be extra vigilant about handwashing and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.

“It is more important than ever that we all get serious about stopping the spread of this virus,” the release stated.