The last playgrounds open during the COVID-19 crisis are now closed after both SD68 and SD69 made the decision to close school playgrounds. (Spencer Sterritt/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

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Nanaimo and mid-island school playgrounds now off limits

Mar 24, 2020 | 10:52 AM

NANAIMO — The last playgrounds still open for families feeling the pressure of social distancing are now closed.

The Nanaimo Ladysmith School District, Qualicum School District and Alberni School District have now closed their school playgrounds for public use.

The closures are effective starting on Monday, March 23 to help eliminate the spread of COVID-19, which can survive on metal surfaces.

Dale Burgos, communications director with the Nanaimo Ladysmith School District, told NanaimoNewsNOW it was a relatively quick discussion for the school board to make.

“It’s unfortunate we’re at the point we have to close (playgrounds) but it does make sense. We have to ensure physical distancing and cleanliness are adhered to. At this point, we don’t have the staff to make sure it’s getting cleaned every day, so this was the best solution.”

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Burgos said there’s little enforcement which can be done of people ignoring the warning signs. He said the onus is on people to stay away from the playgrounds and take care of themselves and families.

This development follows an escalating series of closures throughout the area.

First indoor rec facilities such as Frank Crane Arena and Ravensong Aquatic Centre were closed. The City of Parksville shutting down playgrounds was next on Friday, March 20. By the end of the week all outdoor sports facilities in the area were closed.

Trails throughout the mid-island remain open for the time being. Anyone going for a hike and trying to get out of the house are advised to remain six feet away from others on the trail. If they can’t because trails are too packed, they’re advised to not continue with their activity.

As of Tuesday, March 24 at 12 p.m., the number of COVID-19 cases confirmed on Vancouver Island is 39.

An update from provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Tuesday.

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