In response to surging COVID-19 case numbers in ski communities in recent weeks, the provincial government is teaming up with WorkSafeBC, six local governments and the Canada West Ski Areas Association to launch an education campaign about the pandemic.
The campaign includes provincewide TV and digital advertising, as well as more education for ski resort employees about eliminating social gatherings in shared housing.
It also aims to assist employers with contact tracing, and reinforce quarantine and self-isolation accommodation information and protocols for people working and living in ski communities.
“I want to personally thank the ski industry and communities who have been working non-stop to save this ski season, and I know most people are doing the right thing to avoid spreading COVID-19,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, in a release.
“However, those who are mixing households, throwing parties and ignoring the rules are putting jobs, our economy and our health at risk. Now is the time for each of us to step up and do our part so we can continue to enjoy all that ski communities have to offer.”
The six communities collaborating on the campaign—Whistler, Sun Peaks, Rossland, Revelstoke, Invermere and Fernie —have had working groups focused on preventing COVID-19 transmission that include ski operators, municipalities, community destination marketing organizations, chambers of commerce and local health authorities.
“We’re calling on everyone to be the reason we save our season,” said Mayor Jack Crompton, in the release.
“Whistler doesn’t have an economy if we do not overcome COVID-19 transmission within our community. That’s why it is so important each of us be conscious about not participating in situations where COVID-19 spreads. Take a COVID-19 rain cheque on après with friends. Let’s stick to our households and socialize virtually.”
The campaign was first announced last week.
Pick up next week’s Pique for more.
