Most Fernie citizens are looking forwards to having a bit more social freedom, mobility and shopping options as soon as safely possible. Fernie Fire Rescue took the first step Friday by temporarily rescinding the campfire ban. They commented, “This ban relaxation is meant to support our community in responsibly enjoying a backyard fire at home.”
B.C. health officials say measures put in place to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus are working, but restrictions won’t be lifted until the middle of May at the earliest. Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry commented, “We have to find that balance of opening the economy, (and) having business going while maintaining some of the restrictions we have in place. It won’t be back-to-school, everyone mingling. It might be a gradual return with smaller numbers in graduated classrooms. So some kids part of the day and some kids for other parts of the day.”
On Thursday, Henry said it may be fine for young people who are on their own to connect with other small groups of friends. But someone who has a family member undergoing cancer treatment, for example, should consider avoiding expanding their circle much. “We’re not going to have large group gatherings together, we’re not going to be having indoor parties this coming summer, but we can look at how we can safely have more people and more contact in our lives,” she said.
Throughout the pandemic, B.C. has taken a less severe approach to lockdown than some other provinces. Premier John Horgan said Wednesday that the reopening guidelines will also be different than other provinces, mostly because we didn’t fully lock down its economy, allowing construction, agriculture and other industries to continue operating.
Fortunately here in Fernie we are blessed with endless wilderness for our enjoyment and a community of businesses that have worked hard to continue serving us. The Fernie Chamber and Tourism Fernie have kept an updated list of open local businesses, here is is: BusinessDirectory-COVID19
Supporting small business in Fernie is very important for our community. Here is list of the positive impacts of small business on our local economy and community:
• For every $100 you spend at local businesses, $68 will stay in the community
• Independent retailers return more than three times as much money per dollar of sales to the community in which they operate than chain competitors. Independent restaurants return more than two times as much money per dollar of sales than national restaurant chains.
• Local businesses are owned and operated by your neighbours! They care about and are invested in the well-being of your community and its future.
• Local businesses are more accountable to their local communities and donate more money to non-profits.
• Supporting local businesses is good for the environment because they often have a smaller carbon footprint than larger companies.
To keep our community healthy please respect our health officials advice and shop local. Best wishes and stay healthy!
