Playgrounds reopening across Calgary but sports remain prohibited

Parents, rejoice: Calgary's playgrounds will be reopening earlier than expected, and just in time for a warm weekend.

Sue Henry, the deputy chief of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), announced on Thursday that the city will begin reopening its 1,100 playgrounds on Friday — three days ahead of schedule.

"Calgary Parks has been able to advance the timing around reopening. We are really proud of this team," Henry said. 

"They've been able to respond quickly and safely, while advancing the timelines, so Calgarians have a few more options for what looks to be a gorgeous weekend."

Regional playgrounds will open first, such as Bowness Park, Riley Park and Stanley Park, followed by community playgrounds.

The entire process, Henry said, is expected to be completed by June 3.

However, sports will remain prohibited.

She also said the 30-minute curbside pickup and delivery free parking zone promotion is coming to an end May 31.

Don't remove caution tape, Henry says

A light inspection will be completed before a playground is opened, but Henry asked Calgarians to refrain from removing caution tape themselves, as this signals it is still closed.

"Wait for the city crews to open the playgrounds safely," Henry said, acknowledging that playgrounds are high-contact areas.

"If you make the choice to visit a playground, remember the guidelines. Those who are sick, or have symptoms of COVID-19, must stay home."

Guidelines and rules in place

If you are unsure whether a playground is open, look to see that:

• All closure signs are removed.
• All caution tape is removed.
• Signs about safe usage are in place.

The city-mandated guidelines state that Calgarians:

• Should not use playgrounds if they are sick or have symptoms related to COVID-19.
• Must remember to practise proper hand hygiene. 
• Should encourage children to avoid sharing toys or sports equipment and limit contact with individuals outside of their household or cohort family.
• Should try to encourage children to avoid touching their face.
• Should maintain two metres of physical distance between themselves and others.
• Should clean and disinfect toys and sports equipment prior to and after use.
• Should carry and use hand sanitizer containing at least 60 per cent alcohol immediately before and after using playground equipment.
• Should maintain physical distancing and limit congregating with other people when entering and leaving the playground and supervising children playing (e.g., paths, benches, picnic areas).
• Should follow the Government of Alberta guidance on group gatherings.