Monday June 1, 2020 ~ SOOKE, BC
by Mary Brooke ~ West Shore Voice News
Municipal playgrounds in Sooke are now open again to the public, effective June 1, 2020, after an extended closure during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Saying they recognize the importance of play, the District of Sooke today announced the reopening of playgrounds that had been closed for 68 days, since March 25.
“Everyone should be mindful of appropriate personal hygiene practices before, during and after outdoor play,” it was stated in a news release from the District of Sooke Fire Rescue Department.
This opening comes on the first day of Phase 3 of the Restart BC economic recovery program during the continuing pandemic. Community education about hygiene and physical distancing has been a big part of Phases 1 and 2, led by the Provincial Health Officer.
Schools have re-opened in BC today in this Phase 3 of the Restart BC plan.
Five playgrounds now open:
The following playgrounds are now open for use:
• Broomhill Park (Beaton Road/Pyrite Drive)
• Woodland Creek Park (Callumwood Lane)
• Brooks Park (Brooks Road)
• Sunriver Tot Lot (Sunriver Way)
• Burr Park (Burr Road)
Signage has been posted at all municipal playgrounds advising residents that playground equipment will not be cleaned. Parents can make an informed decision prior to allowing children access to the equipment.
Residents encouraged to adhere to these recommendations:
• Stay at home if you are sick.
• Yield to other users and maintain at least six (6) feet of distance.
• As equipment will not be cleaned nor disinfected, residents are encouraged to bring hand sanitizer – recommended for use before, during and after playing.
• Washrooms at Broomhill Park will be open (with the caveat to use at your own risk) and are currently scheduled for cleaning twice daily (subject to change).
• Please pack out all waste and recyclables, whenever possible, as garbage as garbage can surfaces are not cleaned regularly. Please do not leave anything outside the cans.
• Use picnic tables and benches responsibly, and at your own risk, as it is not feasible to maintain regular cleaning after each use.
Larger parks were already re-opened May 1:
Ed Macgregor Park, Marine Boardwalk and Whiffin Spit Park were re-opened for public access on May 1, 2020, with some recommendations for safe and responsible use:
Using the parks and playgrounds responsibly will help ensure that residents will continue to have access to our beautiful outdoor spaces.
