At this time anything other than essential or unavoidable travel into Canada is not permitted, and travel within different provinces is also not allowed for recreational and leisure purposes. This summer we will be offering guided hikes only to those visitors from within the provinces of Alberta & British Columbia.
This is the 1st Edition of this document (June 9th, 2020) and we will update it as more information becomes available. We will focus in here on the main considerations for GuideMe to offer guided hikes and other activities this summer.
In A Nutshell:
Social distancing, increased hygiene, and cleaning practices are working to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus which causes COVID-19 infections. The Alberta government has recently announced a staged recovery plan to relaunch the economy. Resuming activities and getting outside is part of this relaunch plan and GuideMe Banff's scope of practise fits within the present guidelines. To ensure we are safe and successful with our own relaunch, we are mandated to take continued steps to ensure the safety of our staff, instructors, members and course participants.
Ensuring that the health and safety of our Guides and Guests is the number 1 priority.
To achieve this, GuideMe Banff will follow all public health orders/measures outlined by the province of Alberta and British Columbia.
This includes:
· Communication related to Covid-19;
· Prevention measures (including screening check ins, hygiene, cleaning and physical distancing measures)
Declaration of Health
All guests will be required to complete a declaration of health prior to participation that attests:
● that in the 14-day period preceding the program they have not returned from international travel or been in close contact with someone with COVID 19; and
● that in the 10-day period preceding the program they have not experienced a cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose or sore throat that is not related to a pre-existing illness or health condition.
Transportation
Guests will be responsible for transporting themselves to and from all hiking locations or arranging pick-up and drop-off with a resident of their household. Carpooling will not be arranged and is not allowed.
Group Size
All outdoor sessions will have a reduced Guide to Guest ratio. We will operate with 1 guide for every 6 guests while out in the field, until further notice.
Equipment
All guests will be required to bring, carry and use their own equipment. Equipment should not be shared between guests.
This includes outdoor gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, clothing, bug spray, water, food, books, binoculars, knives, papers/handbooks, pens, etc.
Physical Distancing
Wherever practical, 2-meter physical distancing between guests must be observed. In instances where physical distancing is not attainable, non-medical face masks must be worn by everyone.
High Winds
Because wind can carry droplets, you can reduce the chances of viral spread during windy conditions by increasing your physical distancing or by donning masks.
Passing Others on Trails
Narrow trails present contact and distancing challenges for people trying to pass one another. Where possible, communicate with the approaching person or group and decide on who will move safely off the trail until the others have gone by. If it is unsafe to keep a two-meter spread, move as far as is safely possible and ensure the passing party moves by quickly and with no physical contact.
Personal Protective Equipment
Guides and guests are required to carry a minimum of two non-medical face masks with them at all times. The masks must meet the specifications outlined by the Government of Canada and:
● allow for easy breathing;
● fit securely to the head with ties or ear loops;
● maintain their shape after washing and drying;
● be changed as soon as possible if damp or dirty;
● be comfortable and not require frequent adjustment;
● be made of at least 2 layers of tightly woven material fabric (such as cotton or linen); and
● be large enough to completely and comfortably cover the nose and mouth without gaping.
Additionally, students, guides and guests are required to carry an adequate amount of hand sanitizer (minimum 60% alcohol content) for the duration of each outing.
Cleaning and sanitation
Guides & Guests must use proper hand sanitizing protocols throughout the day. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
Revised waiver
GuideMe waivers have been revised to include ‘Pathogens’ and the Declaration of Health attestation. The waiver will be sent out to guests to sign online and send in before meeting your guide in the field.