Be the reason we all have a ski season

The provincial government, local governments and an industry association are joining forces to safeguard the second half the ski season in B.C.

In response to virus transmission in shared accommodation and socializing in ski communities, government and industry leads have developed a campaign that focuses on educating ski communities on COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

“I want to personally thank the ski industry and communities who have been working non-stop to save this ski season, and I know most people are doing the right thing to avoid spreading COVID-19,” Melanie Mark, minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport said. “However, those who are mixing households, throwing parties and ignoring the rules are putting jobs, our economy and our health at risk. Now is the time for each of us to step up and do our part so we can continue to enjoy all that ski communities have to offer.”

The campaign includes province-wide television and digital advertising promoting enhanced communication to employees and education for eliminating social gatherings in shared housing and short-term accommodation, employers assisting with contact tracing, reinforcing quarantine and self-isolation accommodation information and protocols for people working and living in ski communities.

Since the start of the pandemic, Whistler, Sun Peaks, Rossland, Revelstoke, Invermere and Fernie have had working groups focused on preventing COVID-19 transmission that include ski operators, municipalities, community destination marketing organizations, chambers of commerce and local health authorities.

There have been COVID outbreaks in some resort areas including Big White where a community cluster saw over 200 people infected.

Actions undertaken by the CWSAA in advance of and during the winter season include developing a COVID-19 safety protocol document and a partnership with the Canadian Ski Council to develop ‘Ski Well, Be Well,’ a website for operational best practices and customer education.

“Ski areas are part of the fabric of many communities, especially in rural B.C.,” Chris Nicolson, president and CEO of the Canada West Ski Areas Association said. “This initiative puts into practice guidance from the Office of the Provincial Health Officer.”

The ministries of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport; Health; and Municipal Affairs; in conjunction with WorkSafeBC; six local governments and the Canada West Ski Area Association (CWSAA) have launched an education campaign to reduce COVID-19 transmission in ski communities.

For more information on “Ski Well, Be Well click here.