COVID and Cancellation of Community Events?
Posted: Thu 12 Mar 2020 9:36 am
Hi
I think there is so much useful information out there re COVID infection precautions etc that we can all make our individual intelligent and balanced assessment on personal risk and how best to reduce that risk. In a nutshell - the chances of contracting this virus remains incredibly low and if individuals keep their hands clean and report any flu like symptoms early then this risk is reduced significantly.
However, unless you completely self isolate (ie don't leave your house) you will be exposed to risk of some level anyway. Most of us will still be shopping at supermarkets that have literally thousands of complete strangers (with no idea if they are taking personal precautions) walking through the door daily and handling goods and produce within.
Most of us will still go to our favourite bars and restaurants hoping that others are taking the same precautions that we are.
I fully agree that 'mass' events probably need to be cancelled or are under review leading up to the event (not least because Government agencies are advising / demanding large venues apply strict control measures so it is out of our control anyway).
BUT - if you are organising (or attending) a modestly attended bar quiz or coffee morning or bingo afternoon (for example) or similar event then you are more likely to be in the company of like minded sensible people who understand the concerns of others. The organiser can remind the attendees to be kind to others and adhere to basic precautions. Those that feel the risk is too great - you need not attend.
I think retaining 'community events' and being in the company of others is even more important in times of crisis - just be sensible.
In short - if you are taking sensible self protection precautions (washing your hands for example) and are still happy to mingle in busy supermarkets or busy government buildings... then you can still meet up with friends and have some community fun too (just be safe and sensible and invite your friends to be the same too).
I think there is so much useful information out there re COVID infection precautions etc that we can all make our individual intelligent and balanced assessment on personal risk and how best to reduce that risk. In a nutshell - the chances of contracting this virus remains incredibly low and if individuals keep their hands clean and report any flu like symptoms early then this risk is reduced significantly.
However, unless you completely self isolate (ie don't leave your house) you will be exposed to risk of some level anyway. Most of us will still be shopping at supermarkets that have literally thousands of complete strangers (with no idea if they are taking personal precautions) walking through the door daily and handling goods and produce within.
Most of us will still go to our favourite bars and restaurants hoping that others are taking the same precautions that we are.
I fully agree that 'mass' events probably need to be cancelled or are under review leading up to the event (not least because Government agencies are advising / demanding large venues apply strict control measures so it is out of our control anyway).
BUT - if you are organising (or attending) a modestly attended bar quiz or coffee morning or bingo afternoon (for example) or similar event then you are more likely to be in the company of like minded sensible people who understand the concerns of others. The organiser can remind the attendees to be kind to others and adhere to basic precautions. Those that feel the risk is too great - you need not attend.
I think retaining 'community events' and being in the company of others is even more important in times of crisis - just be sensible.
In short - if you are taking sensible self protection precautions (washing your hands for example) and are still happy to mingle in busy supermarkets or busy government buildings... then you can still meet up with friends and have some community fun too (just be safe and sensible and invite your friends to be the same too).