Interior Health COVID-19 surge effecting City of Merritt facilities

COVID-19 cases are surging across the Interior Health Authority, with Dr. Bonnie Henry introducing new public health restrictions on Friday to curb the spread. Everybody in the Interior is required again to wear a mask in public spaces and group sizes are being reduced.

“The City of Merritt will follow the guidance and direction from Public Health that were put in place to help stop the spread of Covid-19. In compliance with Public Health restrictions announced by the province, masks are now mandatory in all indoor public spaces for people 12 years and older people who live in the Interior Health region. Our facilities will continue to serve the public. It is now mandatory for everyone to wear a mask throughout city facilities,” reads a press release from the City.

Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre

• All staff and the public (12 years and older) are to wear masks when entering and exiting the facility, including change rooms.
• Staff is not required to wear a mask when they are in their personal office space. If they have coworkers or patrons enter their office, they must put a mask on.
• Lifeguards will not be wearing a mask out on the deck when guarding.
• Lifeguards will be following existing safety protocols and use the provided COVID safety PPE when performing first aid including CPR.
• The gym can have up to 10 patrons.
• Low-intensity workouts only.
• Patrons will be required to wear a mask in the gym at all times.
• The sauna will be closed as of 2:00 PM today Monday, August 23rd.
• Aquatic Classes will change back to reservation only with a maximum of 10 people per class.

Nicola Valley Memorial Arena

• All staff and the public (12 years and older) are to wear masks when entering and exiting the facility.
• Staff is not required to wear a mask when they are in their personal office space. If they have coworkers or patrons enter their office, they must put a mask on.
• Skaters are not required to wear a mask on the ice.
• Skaters will be required to wear masks in the change rooms.
• Skaters benches are considered a “field of play”. Drills/skills, contact, and competition are allowed.
• Hockey camps will be submitting a COVID safety plan and ensuring all COVID safety measures are in place and followed.

Merritt Civic Centre

• All staff and the public (12 years and older) are to wear masks when entering and exiting the facility.
• Staff is not required to wear a mask when they are in their personal office space. If they have coworkers or patrons enter their office, they must put a mask on.
• Organized indoor gatherings (e.g. weddings, funerals, seated events) are limited to 50 people and require a COVID-19 safety plan.
• Limited concurrent events to prevent congestion and gathering in common areas and bathrooms.

Park Events

• Outdoor gatherings are limited to 100 people and will require a COVID-19 safety plan.
• Outdoor sporting events are limited to 50 participants with 50 spectators and require a COVID-19 safety plan.
• Limited concurrent events to prevent congestion and gathering in common areas.