There won’t be an children’s programming and community events at playgrounds and beaches this summer. There also won’t be any water fountains available.

And the phrases being repeated often by the province when handing down guidelines for visiting either playgrounds or beaches is hand hygiene, physical distancing. Washroom facilities must be open and there has to be increased cleaning and disinfecting schedule, ensuring soap and water or hand sanitizer is available, as well as the proper disposal of paper hand towels.

Pools, spray pads, indoor playgrounds and other recreational facilities and activities are currently not permitted. These activities will be available in Phase 4 of Re-Open Saskatchewan.

Group sizes have to comply with the public gathering restrictions and it is strongly recommended you limit gathering with other people coming and going and around benches or picnic areas. The province says don’t share toys or sports equipment between groups.

You can click here for a link to the Government of Saskatchewan’s Parks and Playground guidelines.

In preparation for city playground structures reopening on Friday, city crews are out making some changes. They are taking down the closed signage that is up at over 347 playgrounds throughout the city. They are also removing the tape that was placed to keep people away. New signs are being installed to remind people of the guidelines from the Chief Medical Health Officer.

Reminders from the Chief Medical Health Officer:

• Individuals who are sick should stay home.
• A physical distance of two metres should be maintained between people not from the same household or extended household.
• Individuals should wash their hands frequently with soap and warm water or, when unavailable, with hand sanitizer, before and after using parks and playgrounds.
• Avoid overcrowding. Individual groups must not exceed the restrictions on public gatherings.
• If an area is busy, such as playground equipment or park space, come back when it’s not as busy or use another play area.
• Do not share toys or sports equipment between groups.
• Consider limiting children and other members of your household to only visiting playgrounds close to your home. This will help limit the number of people your family may come into contact with.