The City of Coquitlam continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely to ensure we continue to respond to emerging issues as they relate to City facilities, programs, services and events.
COQUITLAM, BC, Mar. 13, 2020 – The City of Coquitlam continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely to ensure we continue to respond to emerging issues as they relate to City facilities, programs, services and events.
While the COVID-19 situation is changing daily around the world, it is important to note that the BC Centre for Disease Control continues to affirm that risk to people in British Columbia and the rest of Canada remains low at this time.
Even so, we are mindful that our community is concerned about the potential impact of the further spread of the coronavirus and we are acting accordingly to do what we can to support public safety.
Regular updates regarding City facilities, programs, services and events are posted to coquitlam.ca/covid19.
City Services
At this time, all City services are operating normally. However, as this situation evolves it may be necessary to make adjustments.
Any services changes will be communicated through the City website at coquitlam.ca/covid19. Residents can also follow the City’s social media channels and download the CoquitlamConnect and ReCollect mobile apps for ongoing updates.
Scheduled Events and Programs
At this time, Coquitlam has not cancelled any City-led programs and events; this includes Spring Break camps.
We will continue to monitor the situation and make any changes recommended by the health authorities. All updates will be posted to the City website at coquitlam.ca/covid19.
If the risk within our community increases, it is important to know that the City of Coquitlam has in place the organizational structure, emergency plans and processes to monitor and respond to issues like this one.
Public Gatherings, Meetings and Consultations
Due to Spring Break, the City does not have any regular City Council or Advisory Committee meetings scheduled during the period from March 16 – 27. Similarly, the majority of the City’s special events are held later this year. Consequently, there is no immediate impact to these but the City will be doing ongoing assessment of the risk levels and responding accordingly.
However, we are aware that there are a number of community groups and organizations who have planned events in Coquitlam, including some at City parks and facilities. We encourage event organizers to consider the recommendations of the health authorities and to use the Government of Canada’s Public Health Mass Gathering Risk Assessment Tool to support risk-informed decisions. The site also contains additional tips and information to support the best interests of public safety.
Community members who may have questions or concerns related to public gatherings being organized by community groups or other agencies, are urged to contact the organizers directly.
Facility Cleaning
The City continues to follow the direction of local, provincial and federal health authorities on this matter. As is typical of this time of year and the influenza and cold season, the City has the following cleaning protocols in place:
- Daily disinfection of all pool decks.
- Daily disinfection of all contact surfaces in City-maintained facilities (e.g. doorknobs, counters, tables, etc.).
- Disinfectant spray bottles and papers towels in any location where there are fitness activities (e.g. spin studios, fitness rooms, yoga rooms).
- Staff training to ensure proper cleaning products and procedures are used.
In response to the current COVID-19 situation, the City has also taken the following additional steps:
- Increased frequency of disinfection of contact surfaces in high-risk buildings (e.g. 50+ pavilions, recreation centres).
- Additional hand sanitizers in civic facilities.
- Daily disinfection of skating rental helmets.
- More frequent hosing of changes rooms at pool facilities.
- Additional hand washing notification in all facility washrooms.
Public Notification
To enhance public awareness of the measures recommended to help contain the spread of the virus, the City has also posted notifications throughout its facilities. This same messaging is also being shared on the City’s website and social media channels.
Whether at home, or in one of our City facilities, all City staff, residents and visitors are asked to take the following personal precautions as recommended by the health authorities:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds;
- Cough and sneeze into your sleeve, not your hands;
- Avoid touching your face; and
- Stay home when you are unwell.
Make Informed, Risk-Based Decisions
In addition to adopting the precautionary measures listed above, everyone is encouraged to do their own personal risk assessment before attending a public facility.
Should you determine the need to cancel a pre-registered program or an event booked at a City facility, please note the City of Coquitlam will be waiving any fees normally associated with cancellations. For information regarding program or event cancellation, contact 604-927-4386.
For More Information
Visit coquitlam.ca/covid19 for ongoing updates on the coronavirus situation as it relates to City of Coquitlam facilities, programs, services and events. Updates will also be shared through the City’s Twitter and Facebook pages.
For more information and updates, including answers to frequently asked questions and translated information, please consult the following resources: