SUDBURY -- Garden River First Nation declared a state of emergency effective April 5 at 12:00p.m., bringing restricted access to the territory.

In a community notice released yesterday, Chief and Council officially implemented the order that will also enact a 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. curfew pursuant to By-law #2020-01.

The Bylaw will be enforced by the Anishinabek Police Service local detachment.

Two restricted checkpoints will be operated and monitored by community members with assistance from the community's fire department.

"These checkpoints will be on the  HWY 17B East and West Boundaries of Garden River First Nation and all other access points leading into the community from the 4 lane HWY 17 will be blocked," said the notice.

"We know there are exceptions requiring the need to travel to and from the community…If you need to leave the community, we ask that you plan your trips so that it reduces the frequency of your need to travel."

The release goes on to urge the community to comply with all safety limitations implemented by Chief and Council.