City hall encouraging everyone to visit parks, beaches ‘safely’

Anyone visiting Kelowna’s parks or beaches this weekend is reminded to keep personal and community safety top of mind.

While crowded beaches are typically a sign of summer in Kelowna, any type of large gathering is a concern during a pandemic.

“The B.C. long weekend is the pinnacle of summer in the Okanagan, and we encourage residents to get out, get active and enjoy the fresh air – just make sure to be safe while doing so,” said Lance Kayfish, risk manager with the City of Kelowna. “If the parking lot is full or the beach or park looks too crowded, make the smart choice and find a different, quieter location. We are lucky in Kelowna to have plenty of beach and park options to choose from.”

Kelowna has more than 200 parks, including more than 35 beaches or beach accesses which can be found at kelowna.ca/parks.

“As a general rule, if you can’t find a spot to put down your towel that is at least six feet away from others, the beach is too busy,” says Kayfish. “We ask that you simply be flexible in your weekend plans, try a different spot, or simply come back later when it’s less busy.”

Starting this long weekend, staff will visit popular outdoor areas in Kelowna to ensure residents and visitors are practicing safe physical distancing.

In addition to pandemic safety, park and beach visitors are reminded that all Kelowna parks are smoke-free and that any type of outdoor wood burning, including campfires, is not permitted.