Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and officials are urging Albertans to celebrate safely during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
"I encourage everyone to safely spend time with their families and friends this Thanksgiving, keeping in mind that we should remain diligent with social distancing, washing our hands and keeping social gatherings to a minimum," said Mayor Peter Brown. "If you are visiting for the holiday, please be safe in your travels and be sure to observe any COVID-related protocols upon your return. Although this year has been challenging and unprecedented, we still have many things to be thankful for and look forward to positive outcomes in the future."
Rocky View County (RVC) Reeve Greg Boehlke offered similar sentiments.
"We have had a trying year so far, with COVID and the pandemic, but these things will soon be behind us," he said. "I think now's the time to rejoice and give thanks for the abundant crops that most farmers had and the good life we really do lead and are allowed to lead in this country. I wish everybody the best on behalf of council."
In a briefing Sept. 24, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta's chief medical officer of health, said 2020 has made many people more aware of how much they have to be thankful for. Whether it is supportive families, committed healthcare professionals or dedicated teachers, things people have taken for granted in the past are now being appreciated a little more in a year marked by the virus.
“It is natural for people to want to come together and celebrate Thanksgiving with a new level of appreciation," Hinshaw said. "At the same time, we all want Thanksgiving to be a safe holiday that keeps everyone healthy.”
To that end, the Alberta government has published a list of holiday safety tips on alberta.ca
“The spread of the virus and the safety of holidays we cherish is on each one of us," Hinshaw said. "We are all in this together.”
If hosting a celebration, the government suggests virtual options may be a preferable method. Otherwise, events should be limited in size and kept to your cohort.
“Smaller is safer,” Hinshaw said, adding physical distancing between people not in your cohort should be maintained. “This is not the time for large gatherings.”
The Alberta government also suggests keeping plans flexible, so they can be changed on a moment's notice if a safety risk presents itself.
Ventilation is also key, according to the government’s list of advice. Depending on the weather, windows should be kept open to allow airflow from outdoors.
In her briefing, Hinshaw acknowledged food often plays an important role in Thanksgiving celebrations. She advised having a single person plate all food so that serving utensils are not being shared.
“Even better, consider having pre-portioned servings, ordering takeout or perhaps having guests bring their own food,” she said.
Further, the government indicates it is best to keep cohorts seated together, and otherwise space people out.
Handwashing remains an important practice, and the government said hands should especially be cleaned before eating. Hosts should also make sure hand sanitizer and soap are readily available for guests to use.
Anyone visiting a family member in a care facility should familiarize themselves with the venue’s visitor policy, Hinshaw said, and should only visit if scheduled.
Finally, and most importantly, Hinshaw said it is crucial for anyone who feels sick to cancel their plans.
“I want to particularly emphasize that last point,” she said. “If you are feeling any symptoms at all, it is important that you stay home and away from others.
Boehlke urged County residents to follow the Alberta government's guidelines while they enjoy a safe and cheerful celebration.
"I would suggest people [follow] the recommendations and do the things that make them comfortable," he said. "If you're comfortable with your family and friends, all the best to you."
Ben Sherick, AirdrieToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @BenSherick
