Monday, July 6, 2020
British Columbia has now entered into Phase 3 – so what does that mean for you? While you continue to study at home, you can electively meet with your classmates in a various settings such as local parks, restaurants, cafes, and more – at a safe distance – and go over notes or study for exams.
Many more businesses, and even tourist operations, are beginning to open their doors. While most businesses may not operate as they have historically, as long as you’re willing to abide by specific regulations, including hand sanitizing before entering an establishment, maintaining a two-metre distance from people outside your bubble, wearing a mask when required, and more, you will be able to enjoy a range of different activities in your province this summer.
- Select gyms and exercise studios are open at limited capacities. Make sure you schedule your spot to attend a workout class as many of these classes are operating on a first-come-first-serve basis. Anytime Fitness has now opened registration on their website. This strict schedule allows staff to routinely clean and sanitize equipment and high-volume areas before the next group of people arrive.
- You can partake in smart, safe, and respectful travel within BC. With a variety of hotels operating at limited capacities and BC campgrounds open for overnight reservations to local residents, you can enjoy a range of sightseeing and activities from Coastal Vancouver all the way up to Northern BC. Visit some wineries in Canada’s sole desert (Osoyoos), try a zipline tour in Whistler, or cycle around Salt Spring Island. For anywhere you plan to visit, make sure to call ahead to find out their policies and determine if a reservation is required.
- You can now visit your elderly family members in care homes. For the month of July, residents in long-term care or assisted-living facilities will be able to visit with one designated family member or friend. This policy will be evaluated in August – and expanded to include other family members or friends – if things go well.
Remember, despite all of these new protocols and guidelines, if you feel sick at any time, please stay home. Frequent hand washing, physical distancing, and limiting of social gatherings remain highly encouraged. As Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer, would say “fewer faces and bigger spaces!”
Learn more about BC’s Restart Plan during Phase 3 here. Stay safe this summer, everyone!