Haida Gwaii communities issued a non-emergency ePACT alert on March 27 via email, text and voicemail.
The alert, which was sent out at 1 p.m., included information about the Council of the Haida Nation COVID-19 response.
“Only essential services and essential travel permitted at this time,” the alert said, adding the islanders should maintain physical distancing of 2 metres, practise proper handwashing frequently, and avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth.
“When out of your home for essential errands, do not congregate in groups. When returning to the islands, self-isolate for 14 days.
“Avoid non-essential travel between local communities.”
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A notice posted on the Skidegate Band Council website before the alert went out had warned islanders to be aware it was not an emergency.
“We are just trying to ensure the islands’ joint message reaches all of our community members,” the notice said. “Please pass this notice on to our elders so they are not alarmed on Friday.”
ePACT is a free online network that Haida Gwaii communities use to send out alerts to registered contacts in the event of an emergency.
The island-wide, joint community venture launched in September 2017.
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