Members of our community are concerned about COVID-19 (a coronavirus) and as a City, we want to ensure they stay healthy and informed. The City of White Rock takes its direction on this important health matter from Fraser Health, BC Health Ministry and Public Health Agency Canada.
The BC Centre for Disease Control indicates that while there are cases of COVID-19 in BC, currently the risk to British Columbians remains low. If you are feeling unwell or have health conditions that may be impacted by respiratory illness, health authorities suggest staying at home. For access to City services, residents can use our online services, or contact us through email or telephone.
As this is an evolving situation, the City of White Rock is actively monitoring the situation, and public will be notified on the City’s web site of any facility closures or event cancellations.
City Facilities
Last updated: March 16
To keep the community safe and to help slow the spread of COVID-19, City-operated facilities will be temporarily closed and recreation programs cancelled starting end of day Monday, March 16 until further notice.
Anyone who has signed up for programs that have been cancelled will receive a refund.
City-run facilities impacted by the closure include:
- Kent Street Activity Centre
- White Rock Community Centre
- Centennial Arena
- Centre for Active Living
City Hall remains open at this time. Residents are encouraged to use online services when possible. If you’re not sure how to use them, or you have questions, please contact City Hall at 604-541-2100.
All regular Council meetings and committee meetings and regular Council meetings are still scheduled. Any updates will be posted here.
Prevention and Protection
The most important thing you can do to prevent infection is to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face. To help reduce your risk of infection:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Using soap and water is the single most effective way of reducing the spread of infection
- If hand washing is unavailable, alcohol based hand rubs (ABHR) can be used to clean your hands as long as they are not visibly soiled.
- Do not touch your face, eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
- Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or the crease of your elbow when you sneeze or cough
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Do not share food, drinks, utensils, etc.
How is coronavirus transmitted?
Coronavirus is spread from an infected person through:
- Droplets spread when a person coughs or sneezes
- Close personal contact such as touching or shaking hands
- Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms for COVID-19 are:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
If you have concerns or questions about your health contact HealthLinkBC (8-1-1) at any time or speak with your health care provider.
COVID-19 Information Websites
The most up-to-date information about COVID - 19 can be found through reading informed, evidence-based medical service provider sources such as:
The Public Health Agency of Canada has created a toll-free phone number (1-833-784-4397) to answer questions from Canadians about novel coronavirus as well.