Most of Ontario in Stage 3 of reopening as of Friday

Areas in our region move into Stage 3 of reopening Friday.

Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and Haldimand-Norfolk moved into the third stage at 12:01 a.m.

They join Brant County and the rest of the province, with the exception of Toronto, Peel and Windsor Essex.

The province says it will reevaluate public health data weekly and make changes as necessary.

Almost all businesses are able to reopen in Stage 3, but things will look a little different.

Restaurants and bars and can open for indoor dining, in addition to outdoor patios permitted in Stage 2.

Playgrounds will be able to reopen but will not be cleaned or sanitized.

Gyms can reopen, but many will require making an appointment ahead of time.

Stage 3 means gyms can reopen. You’ll have to wear a mask (anytime you aren’t working out) and you may have to book an appointment. Details: @morninglive @CHCHNews #HamOnt pic.twitter.com/oDp1gN7Qvx

— Sylvie Lendvay (@sylvie_lendvay) July 24, 2020

Museums, galleries and zoos will also be able to reopen, along with libraries and movie theatres.

People are still required to maintain physical distancing of at least two metres and frequently wash hands.

People are being encouraged to stay home when sick.

Gathering limits will increase to 50 people indoors and 100 people outside.

Social circles where physical distancing is not required should be kept to 10 people regardless of the stage.

The following places are not yet safe to open, as per health officials:

• Amusement parks and water parks
• Buffet-style food services
• Dancing at restaurants and bars, other than by performers hired by the establishment
following specific requirements
• Overnight stays at camps for children
• Private karaoke rooms
• Prolonged or deliberate contact while playing sports
• Saunas, steam rooms, bath houses and oxygen bars
• Table games at casinos and gaming establishments