Mar 05, 2020

COVID-19: Town focuses efforts on increasing good public health practices

 The number of confirmed cases of the new respiratory illness known as COVID-19, Coronavirus, has created an increase in public awareness around how we can all limit the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses in our respective communities.

The Town of Ladysmith is therefore providing the most current information to residents on measures we are taking at our facilities and offices as part of our overall commitment to the health and safety of public and staff

It is important to note that the Public Health Agency of Canada has stated as of this week that the risk to the Canadian public remains low and that it is continually reassessing the situation.

As for what you can do: follow the same advice that public health officials recommend for the cold and flu season: wash your hands often with soap and water, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoid others who are unwell, and stay home when you are sick.

 

Additional hand sanitizer stations

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is available to the public at the front counter of City Hall, Development Services and Public Works as well as the Frank Jameson Community Centre (FJCC).

The FJCC is the busiest of our facilities and it’s estimated that several hundred individuals and families visit the recreational facility daily for fitness classes, or to use the gym and pool facilities.

Currently there is a hand sanitizer dispensing unit available to patrons in the Fitness Centre.

Later this week, the Town will be installing additional hand sanitizer units throughout the FJCC for the public to use.  These additional devices will be placed in the FJCC lobby as well as on the second floor near the fitness studio.

Staff will evaluate the use of these hand sanitizer units and install additional dispensers as required.


Commitment to clean Town facilities

Regular cleaning of common surfaces such as doors, counters and windows is part of the daily tasks performed by staff across our departments to help limit the spread of harmful bacteria and provide a high standard of cleanliness.

In response to COVID-19, FJCC  facilities staff have now started to clean all door knobs, handles and push plates every three to four hours using alcohol-based disinfectant wipes. 

Fitness Centre staff are also completing additional wipe downs throughout the day of all fitness machines, dumbbells, mats and all other gym equipment, including the upholstery and hand grips.  

 

Shared responsibility with patrons

Sharing gym equipment and machinery means we all have a role to play maintaining a sanitary workout environment.

The Town supplies microfiber clothes and spray bottles filled with a disinfectant cleaner that’s diluted with water to be used in the gym area by patrons.    We also wash and replace these microfiber clothes several times over the course of the day.

We appreciate the efforts of all FJCC patrons who continue the routine practice of wiping down surfaces they come into contact with in the fitness centre or while participating in drop-in classes.  Equipment used in drop-in classes such as mats and spin bikes also receive an additional cleaning by staff.

Complimentary hand towels are available for the public in the Fitness Centre. Please consider carrying one during your workout to wipe sweat away from your face instead of using your hands.

We kindly ask that if you are feeling unwell that you consider staying home as a precaution and visiting the FJCC and/or our Town offices at a later time.  It's also best to contact your health-care provider.

 

COVID-19 Information Links: