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RDCK adopts masks, face coverings policy for all indoor rec facilities common areas

Nelson Daily Staff
By Nelson Daily Staff
September 11th, 2020

The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is stepping up its response to COVID-19 pandemic by requiring non-medical masks or face coverings when entering and moving through all common areas of indoor recreation facilities, except when exercising or performing physical activity.

The RDCK made the announcement Friday. The face mask requirement begins Monday, September 14, 2020.

“We are looking forward to inviting users back into our facilities to take part in more programming and arena sports,” Joe Chirico, General Manager of Community Services.

“While we are re-opening only certain areas of recreation, we want all users to know that we have not forgotten about you and are working steadily to be able to offer more programs and services safely during these COVID-19 times.

“It is important to take a phased approach to ensure the safety of our staff and our patrons.”

The RDCK said wearing a mask combined with other important preventative measures, such as frequent hand washing and physical distancing, will help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The RDCK said using only a mask is not enough to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Exemptions – Face Masks are not required when:

  • A medical professional has advised that wearing a mask may pose a health risk to or impair an individual
  • Wearing a mask would create a health or safety risk to the wearer as determined by federal, provincial or local regulators or Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) guidelines
  • An individual is physically unable to put on or take off the mask without assistance
  • An individual has trouble breathing or cannot remove the mask without help
  • An individual is deaf or hard of hearing and relies on facial and mouth movements to receive communication
  • An individual is a baby or toddler under two years of age

Face Masks Do’s:

  • Make sure your mask completely covers your mouth and nose
  • Put on your mask properly using the tie loops or elastic bands that secure behind your head
  • Wear your mask snug around your face and adjust it as necessary throughout the day
  • When taking off our mask and putting it down, place it with the outside down on a tissue; if a tissue is not available, clean the surface on which you placed it down afterwards
  • Wash your hands and face after removing the mask and before touching your face
  • Keep your mask clean and launder it once a day in warm water
  • Store your mask in a clean and dry space or properly dispose of it

Face Mask Don’t’s:

  • Don’t wear your mask under your nose and mouth
  • Don’t let a strap dangle down or cross the straps
  • Don’t touch or adjust your face mask without cleaning your hands before and after
  • Don’t wear your mask on your head or around your neck or arm
  • Don’t let your mask obstruct your vision
  • Don’t lay your mask on a surface that could be contaminated or contaminate the surface
  • Don’t use a mask if it is damaged in any way

The RDCK said recreation and park services are reviewed regularly as new information and protocols become available.

The RDCK appreciates the patience of all our users as we implement new expanded services with COVID-19 policies and procedures in place.

For up to date information regarding openings and closures of specific areas of recreation, please visit www.rdck.ca/recreation.

Categories: General

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