March 21, 2020 COVID-19 Update from Parks, Recreation and Culture

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed March 21, 2020 4:12 PM

The City of Nanaimo's Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture is committed to keeping its residents healthy and safe amidst the COVID-19 crisis.

On Saturday, March 21, 2020, Dr. Bonnie Henry, BC’s Provincial Health Officer stated, "It is important to get outside, but do it with your family, do it with the people that you live with and maintain distance from others." (You can listen to Dr. Henry state this around the 23 minute mark during the BC Government's press conference, here.)

City of Nanaimo parks staff continue to monitor and inspect City playgrounds on a regular basis to ensure they are safe and have additional cleaning protocols in place.

As of last Thursday, on March 19, 2020, the following enhanced cleaning procedures began in playgrounds:

• Power washing using hot water;
• Disinfection of 25 of the busiest playgrounds and their equipments taking place during the day, 7 days a week; and,
• Disinfection of garbage cans each time they are emptied, which occurs three times a week.

As a result of Dr. Henry's recommendations, the City of Nanaimo asks that you continue to enjoy our parks and playgrounds, but do so responsibly by practicing social distancing, which is defined as being 2 metres or 6 feet, and with your family or the people that you live with.

Please also:

• Wash your hands before and after leaving the playground;
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or tissue;
• Avoid touching your face; and,
• Stay home if you are sick.

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