Home Blog

County of Simcoe Paramedic Services launch “Paramedic for a Day” Contest

John Malloy
-
0
County of Simcoe Paramedic Services launch “Paramedic for a Day” Contest

Midhurst/March 30, 2026 – As part of Paramedic Services Week celebrations, the County of Simcoe Paramedic Services is inviting local Grade 5 and 6 students to enter the 2026 Paramedic for a Day contest.

This annual initiative encourages young residents to learn about the vital role paramedics play in keeping our communities safe, while inspiring the next generation of health‑care professionals.

Beginning March 30, eligible students residing in Simcoe County are asked to submit a short essay (maximum 250 words) describing what it means to be a paramedic. Creativity, insight, and a strong understanding of the profession will help determine this year’s winner.

The contest closes April 30 at 8 p.m.

How to Enter
Students must email their essay to [email protected] and include:

  • Student name
  • Parent/guardian name
  • Home phone number
  • School name

The selected winner will have the unique opportunity to participate in Paramedic Services Week activities on May 12, joining County of Simcoe Paramedic Services for a hands-on, behind-the-scenes experience.

Full contest details are available at: www.simcoe.ca/paramedicforaday.

About the County of Simcoe
County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.

🎯 My easy high-protein bread made with anti-inflammatory whole foods | The Doctor’s Kitchen

John Malloy
-
0
🎯 My easy high-protein bread made with anti-inflammatory whole foods | The Doctor’s Kitchen

📌 Here’s the free recipe: https://tdk.link/flax-bread

And if you want more personalised recipes to support your health through food, join our community 👉🏽 https://tdk.link/start-here

I often recommend starting with your bread when you want to cut down on ultra processed foods. This is one of my favourite swaps. It is an easy homemade bread that gives you more protein, more fibre and none of the additives you often find in supermarket loaves. It takes about 10 minutes to prep, you can slice and freeze it for the week, and, trust me, you don’t need any baking skills.

LEARNING TO EAT WELL EVERY DAY 🥗 Download a FREE 7 day meal plan: https://tdk.link/mealplan_yt

🔥 Learn about Inflammation – FREE 4 part mini-series here: https://tdk.link/infl_series_yt

🥑 Heal yourself with food: https://tdk.link/heal_yt

🎤 Listen to experts on the podcast: https://tdk.link/pod_yt

👨🏽‍💻 Browse articles on the website: https://tdk.link/web_yt

📚 Check out my cookbooks: https://tdk.link/books_yt

LET’S BE FRIENDS 📷 Instagram: https://tdk.link/tdk_insta_yt 📹 Subscribe: https://tdk.link/ytsubscribe 🙋🏽‍♂️ Facebook: https://tdk.link/tdk_fb_yt 🐦 Twitter: https://tdk.link/tdk_tw_yt 👔 LinkedIn: https://tdk.link/tdk_li_yt

TWO IMPAIRED DRIVERS ARRESTED FOLLOWING SEPARATE COLLINGWOOD TRAFFIC STOPS

John Malloy
-
0
TWO IMPAIRED DRIVERS ARRESTED FOLLOWING SEPARATE COLLINGWOOD TRAFFIC STOPS

(COLLINGWOOD, ON) – Members of the Collingwood and The Blue Mountains Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police arrested and charged two motorists with impaired operation following separate traffic stops.

On Friday March 27th, 2026, at approximately 2:30 p.m., officers conducted a proactive traffic stop, which subsequently led to an impaired driving investigation.

As a result of the investigation, William MCCORMICK, 46, of Milton, was charged with:

• Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

• Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs

On Saturday, March 28th, 2026, at approximately 9:30 p.m., officers conducted a proactive traffic stop, which subsequently led to an impaired driving investigation.

As a result of that investigation, Maria NIELSEN, a 32-year-old from Collingwood, was charged with:

• Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

The accused individuals are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Collingwood. Their driver’s licences were suspended for 90 days, and their vehicles were impounded for seven days.

Officers encourage motorists to plan ahead when alcohol or drug consumption is anticipated. Choose a designated driver, taxi, rideshare, public transit, or alternative accommodations. Any level of impairment can negatively impact a person’s ability to drive safely.

Members of the Collingwood and The Blue Mountains OPP are committed to public safety, delivering proactive and innovative policing in partnership with our communities. Officers value the public’s contribution to building safe communities. If you suspect someone is driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, call 9‑1‑1. If you have information about suspected unlawful activity, please contact the OPP at 1‑888‑310‑1122, or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1‑800‑222‑8477 (TIPS) or www.crimestopperssdm.com.

OPP INVESTIGATING FATAL SNOWMOBILE INCIDENT ON GEORGIAN BAY

John Malloy
-
0
OPP INVESTIGATING FATAL SNOWMOBILE INCIDENT ON GEORGIAN BAY

(GEORGIAN BAY, ON) – Officers from the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are investigating a fatal snowmobile incident that occurred this evening on the ice near Beausoleil Island.

On March 29, 2026, at approximately 7:15 p.m., police and emergency services responded to a 911 call from the scene of the incident, approximately 2.7 kilometres from the mainland, near the southern tip of Beausoleil Island. A snowmobile operator lost control and was ejected onto the ice. An accompanying rider remained with the injured individual and contacted emergency services.

Simcoe County Paramedic Services, local fire departments, patrol members and an OPP helicopter responded. A civilian air boat was utilized to access the scene, and the injured operator was transported to shore where paramedics performed life-saving measures, transporting the victim to a local hospital.

Sadly, a 62 year-old male of Penetanguishene, was pronounced deceased.

Alcohol is not believed to be a factor. Members of the OPP Technical Traffic Investigations unit (TTCI) are assisting detachment officers, the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or has information that could assist investigators is asked to contact the Southern Georgian Bay OPP 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1‑800‑222‑TIPS (8477).

As warmer spring temperatures continue, ice conditions become increasingly unpredictable and unsafe. The OPP reminds all residents and visitors that ice, including areas that may appear solid, can quickly deteriorate. Snowmobilers, anglers, and anyone considering travelling onto frozen waterways are strongly advised to stay off the ice entirely at this time.

10 Years Living Off-Grid in a Tiny House with Clever Systems & Design Features – FULL TOUR

John Malloy
-
0
10 Years Living Off-Grid in a Tiny House with Clever Systems & Design Features – FULL TOUR

Kenton lives off-grid in a really cool tiny house with his partner Destiny and their two lovely pets.

They’ve lived in it for 10 years and have moved it three times. It is currently parked on a hobby farm in the interior of British Columbia, Canada. The tiny house on wheels was custom-designed and built by Kenton with help from contractors, consultants, and sponsors along the way. The house itself is 28 feet long and 10 feet wide on the exterior, while being 8 feet wide on the interior. The layout is really clever and comfortable with 5 distinct living spaces, including a great kitchen, a multi-purpose living room and dining area, a super functional bathroom, a comfy sleeping loft, and a recreation loft/home office.

There is a ton of storage throughout the house, and some neat features like a sliding door that’s also a ladder and mirror, and a breakfast bar that turns into a dining table that seats 8 people. It has a passive solar design with efficient south facing windows and lots of insulation, including R34 walls and R8 windows, as well as a Heat Recovery Ventilation system (HRV) to bring fresh air into the house without losing heat. In terms of off-grid systems, it has a solar hot water heating system, a 3kW adjustable solar panel system and 8 lead carbon batteries for electricity, a mini wood stove for heat, 2000 litres of on board water tank storage, a propane combi boiler that provides heat to baseboards, water, and even a towel rack, plus a composting toilet, and more!

You can follow and find out more about Kenton here: Kenton Zerbin YouTube Channel:    / @thekentonzerbin  

Attainable Sustainable Academy: https://attainablesustainableacademy….

Permaculture Retreats: https://attainablesustainableacademy…. Tiny House Workshop: https://attainablesustainableacademy….

Win a Tiny House: https://attainablesustainableacademy….

Consulting and Speaking: https://kentonzerbin.com/

Thanks for watching! Website: www.exploringalternatives.ca Facebook:   / exploringalternativesblog   Instagram:   / exploringalternatives  

Trail Tunes Connects Communities by Trail and by Song | Wasaga Beach, Collingwood, and Clearview Township

John Malloy
-
0
Trail Tunes Connects Communities by Trail and by Song | Wasaga Beach, Collingwood, and Clearview Township

Saturday, June 7, 2026

11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Trail Tunes is a regional event that connects communities by trail and by song with 12 concerts at 3 trailhead locations.  A Top 100 Festival in Ontario!

Get out on the trails this International Trails Day for Trail Tunes, a collaborative, regional event connecting over 100kms of trail and rich musical culture between Wasaga Beach, Collingwood, and Clearview Township. The new format will mean that concerts are staggered to allow residents and visitors a chance to bike to every location! Taking place on Saturday, June 7th from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. residents and visitors are encouraged to bike or hike, through Collingwood, Wasaga Beach and Clearview enjoying free, live music at trailheads in each municipality.

Collingwood – Shipyards Amphitheatre

2 North Maple Street, Collingwood

Tyler Delaney Reed 

12:00 p.m. 

Tyler Delaney Reed is a songwriter, multi instrumentalist and music instructor from Shelburne Ontario. Tyler has spent the last several years recording and performing with bands such as Delaney, Comma Echo, and the Sohayla Smith band. 

Tyler has also worked as a solo artist since 2013, performing originals and cover songs. Reed performs many genres but enjoys classic rock and blues, often incorporating loops and improvisation into his work. 

In 2021 Reed released his first full length album. “Ancestry” features 6 guitar based instrumentals that range from beautiful, finger picked acoustics, to long, jam band inspired guitar solos.

Tyler was recently awarded best music instructor and best local performer by Orangeville readers Choice, and was nominated for an Orangeville arts and culture award.

Red N Blue (Heather McIntyre, Jeff Monague and Friends)

1:00 p.m. 

The duo of Red N Blue weaves roots of influence through the stories of connection to the spirit of walking in creation with all things. Their collaborations are equally woven within the notes of influence that include, blues, country, rock and folk which includes many original inspirational storytelling pieces. As members of neighboring Indigenous communities of Beausoleil and Georgina Island First nation, these two magically sing the stories of the land and its people walking within it. Growing up on these shores and grounded in their sovereign identity, they naturally share stories of song that speak to the spirit of all looking for connection and peace for all to lean into. Jeff and Heather believe in the power of diversity and unity so along the journey they will be bringing along some of their friends to deepen the stories being told.

Carly Thomas

2:00 p.m. 

Carly Thomas has been disarming audiences with her honest, heart-on-sleeve approach to songwriting since her very fi rst performances in tavern bars in Europe. The Canadian artist (although raised everywhere from France to Argentina) has a certain wanderlust in her soul which is clear in her words and music, especially her latest collection, Behind The Ficus. Described as “moody Americana/rock” there are also elements of indie pop, folk, and even a hint of country twang. Her songs offer both an intense vulnerability and immediate resonance.
Carly has toured extensively across Canada, The United States and parts of Europe. She has opened for such artists as Whitehorse, Matthew Good, Madison Violet, Great Lake Swimmers, and Jenn Grant just to name a few. .
Carly continues to spend time in Nashville and LA to continue her blossoming career and write music that speaks to the soul. Her single, “Stay With Me”, was a breakthrough song featured on CBC radio and Sirius XM’s “North Americana” , and reviewed as “a sweet glimpse of what vulnerability looks like in a relationship.”

Instagram
Facebook
Website

Motes & Oats

3:00 p.m. 

Motes & Oats is a duo known for powerful harmonies and feel-good songs. Their songs are co-written, and guitar-driven, with a sprinkling of flute melodies that intersect to create a style influenced by folk, country, rock and jazz, but arrive at something totally their own. Motes & Oats have performed across Canada including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario. Their song Saskatchewan from their debut album Simple Things won Best Folk at the Kootenay Music Awards. After moving to Collingwood in 2020, this married couple has been spotted sharing their music at various local events including Musician’s Christmas, Local Live Lunch, Samantha Jones’ Singer-Songwriter Series, Sidelaunch Days, Collingwood’s Canada Day Stomp and the Bruce Trail Annual Music Hike. Follow us on social media!

Instagram
Facebook
Website

Clearview – Centennial Park

240 Brock Street, Stayner

Jolie Anastasia 

11:00 a.m. 

Introducing the talented Jolie Anastasia- enchanting audiences with a voice that resonates from the depths of her soul, it’s no wonder she leaves listeners spellbound. Jolie is an old soul who transports her audience to a bygone era with her nostalgic and familiar sound, reminiscent of legends Joni Mitchell and Nick Drake. But don’t be fooled by her vintage vibes, Jolie’s music is a breath of fresh air that defies current trends. She will be releasing her debut album in the early months of 2025, taking her listeners on a journey of deeply felt songwriting that has already captivated the hearts of her live audiences. As soon as you hear Jolie’s celestial vocals paired with her exceptional acoustic guitar skills, you’ll be hooked like the rest of her fans. Without a doubt she’s a rising star.
Facebook
Instagram
Youtube

Emily Power Duo 

12:00 p.m. 

Emily Power is a dynamic vocalist and performer known for her soulful, powerful voice that captivates audiences from the first note. Influenced by legends like Adele, Elton John, Kelly Clarkson, Eva Cassidy, Dolly Parton, and Lady Gaga, Emily seamlessly blends soul, funk, pop, rock, and country, creating an electrifying experience that resonates across generations. Her performances feature a rich mix of classic and contemporary hits from the ’70s to today, as well as original music that showcases her heartfelt storytelling and undeniable artistry. Whether performing as an intimate duo or leading her full band, Emily delivers every song with passion, authenticity, and a voice that leaves a lasting impression. From high-energy anthems to soul-stirring ballads, Emily Power brings music to life—one unforgettable performance at a time.
Facebook
Instagram
Spotify
Youtube

Kendall Lily 

1:00 p.m. 

Most at home in front of a microphone with her guitar, Kendall is an eighteen-year-old singer/songwriter with a love for performing live music. While she typically performs with her acoustic guitar, Kendall also plays electric guitar, piano and drums. With a growing library of her own original songs and catalog of cover songs spanning multiple generations of music, Kendall continues to hone her craft and share her love for music through live performances. Kendall strives to write and play music that resonates with people and tells story through song. You’ll find Kendall on stages throughout Ontario, playing at Music Festivals, Ribfests, Fairs and other community events. Currently, Kendall is working in the studio, preparing the release of her first single and striving towards her debut EP.

Website
Instagram
Youtube

Karla Crawford Band 

2:00 p.m. 

Karla Crawford is a singer-songwriter originally from Midland, Ontario, and currently resides in the Muskoka area. She is an interactive performer with a playful side. Karla has played countless resorts, corporate events, and clubs across Canada and the USA, but is focusing on getting back to her love of writing and recording original music.
Facebook
Instagram

Wasaga Beach – Wasaga RecPlex Rotary Band Shell

1724 Mosley Street, Wasaga Beach

The Black & Blues

1:00 p.m. 

Featuring the raw talents of JoJo Garrisi (vocals, percussion, harmonica) and JJ BLUE (vocals, guitar, ukulele, looping), Black & Blues Brothers have a combined experience of many years and literally thousands of live performances.
Jojo Garrisi Instagram
JJ Blue Instagram
JJ Blue Website

Genevieve Cyr

2:30 p.m. 

Genevieve and Nate both grew up with musical families where music was part of everyday life, whether through a social gathering or just at home relaxing with their families. They both began to create their own styles and find their own path to music in high school and never looked back. This turned into taking their love for music into a career they love. Genevieve and Nate play all styles of music as an energetic duo through her rhythmic style and powerful vocals and Nate’s soulful playing and soothing voice.
Website

The Trio+ 

4:00 p.m. 

TheTrio+ features the multi-talented singer guitarists Fran Webster and Adam Webster, with percussionist Bob Woodburn.
Fran, Adam and Bob individually have played with a number of well known bands including the Bare Naked Ladies, Shania Twain, The Good Brothers, Gordon Lightfoot, David Clayton Thomas, The Dears and the Heavyweight Brass Band, among others. Their musical tastes and repertoire is wide ranging, from classic blues and rock to folk and jazz, originals and standards.
Paul Mifsud-saxophones.
Paul is a graduate of the famed Berklee College of Music in Boston. He has performed with Las Vegas show bands across the US and Canada, Robbie Lane and the disciples, Boomerang and a Rock and Roll revival with Bo Diddley.

💯 OPP ASSIST INJURED DOG | Transported the dog to a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic for immediate ATTENTION

John Malloy
-
0
💯 OPP ASSIST INJURED DOG | Transported the dog to a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic for immediate ATTENTION

Members of the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) assisted with an injured dog on Saturday afternoon after receiving a call for assistance in Tay Township.

On March 28, 2026, at approximately 5:00 p.m., officers responded to a report of a dog in distress on Vasey Road in Tay Township. The caller advised that a Husky had shown up on their property with it’s face full of porcupine quills and was clearly in significant distress. The individual caring for the dog advised they did not have the financial means to provide the necessary medical treatment.

The OPP apprehended the dog in consultation with animal control. Officers transported the dog to a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic in Barrie for immediate attention. Animal welfare officials were notified and became involved, the dog has received care and is being re-homed.

🏒 BIG OVERTIME WIN by Our Mike Jackson Collingwood Blues!!! Toronto Next for Western Conference Championship

John Malloy
-
0
🏒 BIG OVERTIME WIN by Our Mike Jackson Collingwood Blues!!! Toronto Next for Western Conference Championship

By Dale West

The Mike Jackson Collingwood Blues took the long way to wrap up their series with a 5-4 Overtime win against Leamington Flyers to take the semi final 4 games to 1. Atom Thususka got the winner on the power play in the final minute of the extra period.

The Flyers seemed to be on their way to forcing game 6 by building a 4-2 lead early in the third period. The door was opened with a too many men on the ice penalty to the Flyers, the Blues scored on that power play and then tied it about 90 seconds later.

The Flyers started quickly with Brayden Degelas scoring on a Blues turn over. Leamington had a chance shortly after on the power play to go up two but gave up a shorthanded goal to Nathan Omeri for the second straight game. The period ended tied at one.

Your Collingwood Boston Pizza Player of the Game goes to #17 Atom Thususka

Degelas scored again early in the second as the Flyers went back in front. The lead was increased to two a few minutes later with their first power play goal of the series from Matthew Thomas. The period ended 3-2 when Ethan Facchina fired home his first of the playoffs.

Leamington appeared to be in the drivers seat when Reid Hayes scored less than two minutes into the third. The Flyers kept the game in control until the too many men on the ice penalty and the Blues comeback started and the game was forced to overtime.

In the overtime it got all the way to the final minute, and the Blues got three powerplays before connecting. Atom Thususka banged home a bounce off the end boards that survived a replay challenge.

With the win, Collingwood will play Toronto in the West Conference final. The schedule will be set over the next couple of days.

Big OT win for the Blues! Final score, brought to you by Red Devil Sports.

Registration for our 2026 Prospect Camp is open! Prospective players can check out the registration link for full details on schedule, cost, and additional camp information. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your skills and be part of the Collingwood Blues!

https://collingwoodblues.regfox.com/collingwood-blues…

OJHL Images

The Collingwood Blues are one of the top junior hockey teams in Ontario, and the current playoff series with the Leamington Flyers is the latest test for a program built on winning and community support. The Blues also carry a bigger story: family ownership, loyal fans, a national title in 2024, and back-to-back league championships in 2023 and 2024.

  • The Collingwood Blues are in the spotlight again during the current playoff battle with Leamington.
  • Collingwood finished near the top of the OJHL again in 2025-26, posting a 39-10 record through 54 games and sitting first in its division with 83 points as of late February 2026.[1]
  • The Blues won consecutive league championships in 2023 and 2024.[1]
  • The 2024 team also captured the Centennial Cup national championship, giving Collingwood a lasting hockey milestone.
  • The Steele family ownership story matters because the club has become a true community team, not just a roster on the ice.
  • Terry Geddes Blues Nation
  • Broadcaster Dale West has helped fans feel close to the action with familiar play-by-play.
  • Goaltender Maksim Corovic was named OJHL Top Goaltender for 2025-26.[4]
  • Season tickets for 2026-27 are already on sale, a sign of continued interest in Blues hockey.[3] For Tickets: Click Here

Sunset Sessions – Saturday, May 23, 2026 | Sunset Point Park Stage

John Malloy
-
0
Sunset Sessions – Saturday, May 23, 2026 | Sunset Point Park Stage

Sunset Sessions – A Live & Original Initiative 

Sunset Point Park is about to sound a little different — thanks to the incredible talents of local youth musicians under 18. Sunset Sessions transforms the waterfront park into a lively concert venue, spotlighting the next generation of artists. Come for the music — stay for the moment!

Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Time: Music starts at 4:00 p.m. 
Location: Sunset Point Park Stage – 35 St. Lawrence Street, Collingwood 
Cost: Free & Accessible for Everyone

2026 Sunset Sessions Artists

🎤 Performers to be determined.

Food donations

Give Back While You Groove

While you’re enjoying the tunes, consider bringing a donation for our local community pantry. The Collingwood Youth Centre will be on-site collecting:

  • Shelf-stable food items
  • Personal hygiene products

Your support helps those in need right here at home.

Supporting Local, Celebrating Youth

Sunset Sessions isn’t just a concert — it’s a celebration of emerging talent, creative expression, and community spirit. A huge thanks to our sponsors for helping to make this event possible and embodying those same qualities:

Talent Sponsor:

Envision Tatham

Venue Sponsor:

Tatham Engineering

Still need assistance?

Collingwood Community Clean-Up Days | April 20 – May 12, 2026

John Malloy
-
0
Collingwood Community Clean-Up Days | April 20 – May 12, 2026

Join this year’s efforts to help keep Collingwood litter-free. Community Clean-Up Days 2026 will begin on April 20th, and continue until May 12th, the Provincial Day of Action on Litter.

Getting Involved

We can all do our part to keep Collingwood clean and beautiful while getting outside, spending time being active, and showing our support for a worthwhile project that benefits our Town and our community’s well-being. By extending the community-wide clean-up initiative over several days we will help provide more opportunities for residents to lend a hand and help clean-up Collingwood.

Ways to Get Involved

  • Prevent waste: stop waste before its created. 
  • Reduce waste: giving old products new life instead of throwing them away. 
  • Divert waste: recycling or composting materials when and where possible to divert waste away from landfills. 
  • Report litter and waste that has been rudely dumped in our community, so that Town Staff can respond. 
  • Share thanks to your neighbourhood sanitation workers for keeping the community clean & safe.
  • Pick-up litter around Town when you go out for walks to reconnect with nature and get fresh air.

Supplies Provided

Residents can pick-up garbage bags, recycling bags, and gloves from the Collingwood Public Library or alternatively at the Town Hall during regular business hours beginning Monday, April 20. Please note that Town Hall is currently open Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the Library is open Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Are you a Community Organization or Local Business interested in organizing a group clean-up?

Please reach out to Jennifer Parker, [email protected] to organize supplies and identify an area of need.

Bag Collection

When you are finished with your clean-up please place you garbage bags in or adjacent to a green Parks garbage container located in all Town of Collingwood Parks & Trails. 

Safety Tips

Below are some additional Community Clean-up Days safety tips.

Location

  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • Do not pick up litter or debris on a roadway surface or too close to the road’s edge.
  • Do not wade into any body of water to retrieve garbage including streams or creeks.
  • Do not climb any steep embankment or ravine side to retrieve a piece of trash. 
  • Ensure your work area is kept clear of obstacles to avoid any trips.

Dress for the occasion

  • Dress for the weather including proper rain gear or sun protection as the weather dictates.
  • Wear sturdy shoes or boots to protect feet from uneven surfaces, stones, or glass.
  • Wear reflective vests or brightly-coloured clothing if working near roads.
  • Wear gloves to protect hands from abrasions, cuts, and chemicals. Replace gloves as needed.
  • Reapply sun protection as necessary.

Self-Care

  • Always wear gloves and wherever possible use a garbage picker.
  • Be sure to bring your own bottle of water and stay hydrated.
  • Wash hands before eating, drinking or touching your face.
  • Avoid restricting postures or take frequent breaks to avoid any strains.
  • Set up a home base location in your clean up area for the large bags, for example near an existing park garbage can. Participants should fill smaller bags, place them into the large bags at the centralized location, and tie the tops when they are full. There is no need to move full large bags.
  • Know your location and what to do in emergency situation. Consider bringing a personal first-aid kit

Watch & Avoid

  • Do not touch or pick-up items which may be hazardous or that you cannot identify, including barbed wire, glass, needles, pipes or other drug paraphernalia.
  • Wild animals, animal burrows, insects, hives and nests.
  • Noxious weeds such as poison ivy and giant hogweed.
  • Debris with sharp or rusted edges.
  • Chemicals, dead animals or birds.

Discarded needles or other drug paraphernalia: All needles, sharp objects and biohazards found in parks, along trails or around Town facilities are to be removed as soon as possible since they may pose a risk to residents, visitors and staff. Please mark the location  with a stick, do not touch and call Parks staff, 705-444-2500.

For information on what to do if you find a needle on private property please visit Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Found Needles Fact Sheet.

Provincial Day of Action: Act On Litter

Why it matters

We generate nearly one tonne of waste per person every year in Ontario. It is estimated that almost 10,000 tonnes of plastic debris enter Ontario’s lakes and rivers each year.
In Ontario:

  • Almost 50% of waste is diverted through blue box or green bins
     
  • 70% of general waste materials from residential, commercial and industrial locations end up in landfills. When food and organic waste breaks down in landfills it produces harmful greenhouse gases. Ontario’s greenhouse gases from solid waste in landfills totaled 3.4 million tonnes CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) in 2018 . Waste that doesn’t get recycled or go to landfills ends up as litter in our environment, which can have a negative effect on local ecosystems. Litter along our shorelines, in our green spaces and on our streets can spill into our waterways and break down into micro-plastics in the environment, which can hurt or even kill wildlife and damage ecosystems.
How to take action: What you can do

Your actions matter. Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to run a TV for three hours, or one game of hockey. Almost every plastic item we’ve made since the 1950s is still in our environment.
Consider:

  • donating gently used plastic toys instead of throwing them away
  • using your own dinnerware instead of plastic or paper plates
  • swapping your plastic water bottle for a reusable one when you’re on the go
  • being part of our Community Clean-Up program
  • Step Up and Pick Up

Form additional information on the Provincial Day of Action: Act on Litter and to learn more about how you can help our environment visit the Government of Ontario, Act on Litter

Environment Network logo
Town of Collingwood logo in green
Collingwood Climate Action Team with green planet in background
123...245Page 1 of 245