By Cecilia Nasmith
The amendments the province made last week to the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act have resulted in the reopening of many of Cobourg's outdoor recreational amenities.
A press release from the town listed the boat launch (with no charge until the marina reopens), community garden (for members only), Cobourg Dog Park, outdoor recreational amenities such as baseball diamonds, basketball courts and soccer fields, skateboard park, tennis and pickleball courts, and the parks, beach, outdoor picnic sites, benches and shelters under certain conditions.
Sports amenities are for non-contact unorganized use only, and only for members of the same household. This means activity that is spontaneous and not pre-planned by an individual, group or organization.
The town is also asking citizens to continue the preventive habits that have been part of controlling the spread of COVID-19, such as maintaining a distance of at least two metres from other persons using these amenities (unless they are part of the same household) and not to organize or be part of gatherings or events of more than five people. Also, practice hand hygiene, wear a non-medical mask or face covering if possible, and limit contact with surfaces.
The somewhat relaxed restrictions allow citizens to enjoy walks, bike rides, kite flying, park visits and permitted activities in the reopened facilities.
Certain precautions are recommended, such as pre-planning outings to ensure physical distancing is possible. This may mean going during off-peak hours or walking along the sides of trails and public pathways to add distance. In observance of good hand hygiene, wash hands frequently, keep them away from your face, and carry and use hand sanitizer.
Some closures remain in place, including all outdoor playgrounds, play structures and equipment, and portions of parks and recreational areas that contain outdoor fitness equipment. It also includes outdoor splash pads and swimming pools, as well as all communal facilities intended for use by those using outdoor sports amenities.
Under recent health orders, some activities are not allowed, such as league play, events, festivals and competitions, as well as any outdoor event or gathering where the two-metre separation cannot be maintained – and any outdoor event or gathering of more than five people (unless they are from the same household), including private gatherings such as barbecues and weddings.
Further recommendations include avoiding communal meals and communal features (such as inflatables and trampolines).
The town asks for everyone's patience as changes are reviewed and phased in.
They also warn that, if physical-distancing guidelines are not followed, the process could shut down again to protect the health and wellness of the community.
