New proof of vaccination requirements for aquatic activities and other news
By Regional District of Central Kootenay
To all RDCK Recreation Customers:
The BC Provincial Health Officer (PHO) today released a revised Gatherings and Events Order with new restrictions that impact people who use RDCK recreation facilities and programs.
FITNESS CENTRE CLOSURES
Fitness centres are closed and fitness classes are suspended effective December 23, 2021 until January 18, 2022, or until we are advised that we can re-open.
At this time, registered RDCK programs, aquatics programs and regular public swimming and skating will proceed as scheduled. Guests will be informed if there are any changes.
PROOF OF VACCINATION NOW REQUIRED FOR AQUATICS
Proof of full vaccination is now required for everyone 12 years and older participating in general admission swimming and aquafit programs at RDCK recreation centres. This requirement is effective as of Thursday, December 23, 2021 until further notice.
Proof of vaccination is not required by anyone 11 years and younger, or by anyone from 12 to 21 years old participating in aquatics programs for children and youth, such as swim club and swimming lessons.
Spectators of all indoor events, including parents spectating at their child’s aquatics program or spectators of swim club events, are still required to show proof of full vaccination.
Overview of when proof of full vaccination is required:
Proof of vaccination is REQUIRED for people 12 and older participating in:
• Public swimming and aquafit
• CLOSED – Fitness activities: gym/fitness centres, weight rooms, high- and low-intensity group programs
• RDCK arena public skate programs
• Adult team sports
• Youth participants in adult team sports
• Officials, coaches and volunteers on the field of play for youth and adult team sport
• Parents participating in their children’s programs and activities (except for aquatics)
• Indoor flow-through events
Proof of vaccination is REQUIRED for spectators 12 and older for:
• CLOSED – Fitness activities: gym/fitness centres, weight rooms, high- and low-intensity group programs
• All aquatic and youth recreation programs
• Youth and adult team sport
• Ticketed events
• All indoor youth team sports require all spectators 12 and older to show proof of full vaccination.
Proof of vaccination is NOT REQUIRED for people 21 and younger participating in:
• Programs specifically for children and youth (including swimming lessons)
• Youth team sport
• Outdoor flow-through events
RDCK staff or event organizers will scan users’ proof of vaccination using authorized means prior to entry, and will also confirm proof of identity by checking government issued ID.
You have the option of giving consent for the RDCK to collect and store the fact that you have presented your proof of vaccination in our information systems. To learn more and give consent, contact your local recreation facility or visit www.rdck.ca/recreation and go to the “COVID-19 Information” page.
Before you visit one of our recreation facilities:
• Stay home if you’re sick.
• Wear a mask: Masks are mandatory in all indoor public spaces for people 5 and older, except when exercising. Masks must also be worn in places like change rooms, where the risk of transmission is greater.
• Respect personal space.
• Follow signage and staff direction.
For more information about proof of vaccination, including acceptable forms of proof and identity requirements, visit www.gov.bc.ca/vaccinecard.
RDCK ACTIVE PASSES ON HOLD
All time-based memberships (RDCK Active Passes) will be automatically put on hold as of December 23 until the restrictions are lifted. Guests who can show proof of full vaccination and wish to use their Active Pass to access the pool or arena should let staff know upon their next visit and the hold will be removed. Memberships may also be refunded on a pro-rated basis to December 23. Pass-holders may request a refund by calling their local recreation facility during regular customer service hours. Please allow 3-4 weeks for refunds to be completed.
You can read more about these restrictions at www.rdck.ca/recreation, or contact your local recreation centre if you have any questions.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
We wish you the best for a safe and happy holiday season.
Regional District of Central Kootenay
Box 590
202 Lakeside Drive
Nelson, BC V1L 5R4
1-800-268-7325
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