A COVID Thanksgiving: How to Celebrate Safely

October 7, 2020 | FSEAP Solutions

We are currently in the second wave of the pandemic and it’s crucial that you follow the BC Health Minister’s recommendation of keeping your bubble to a maximum of six people. Medical experts also suggest that over the holidays, you should avoid socializing with those who do not live under the same roof as you. By doing our part now, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau predicts, we may be able to have larger gatherings for Christmas.

Based on these guidelines, FSEAP has thought of some great ideas to help you and your employees connect with loved ones, while avoiding unnecessary risks

  • Use Zoom to include others at the dinner table.
  • Set up tables outside in a yard or a park for a picnic or barbeque to safeguard against people congregating in smaller dining rooms and kitchens (and construct tarps for rainy weather!).
  • Use this as an opportunity to clean out that garage and use a larger space to create true social distancing and ventilation.
  • Send care packages to students studying in different cities.
  • Open windows to allow for a cross breeze.
  • Indoor restaurants and workplace holidays celebrations held in boardrooms, etc. are at high risk; dine on decks if possible.
  • As always, wear masks as much as possible and wash hands.
  • Food preparation should be done with extra attention to cleaning food products as well as counters, etc.
  • Ask guests to wash their hands when they enter and leave your home.
  • Disinfect-high touch surfaces such as washrooms, doorknobs, countertops, tables and chairs often.
  • Alcohol consumption should be kept to a minimum to combat people relaxing on safety standards.
  • Remember that elderly people and those with pre-conditions are more susceptible to contracting the virus.
  • Do not host or visit others if you or someone in your household is feeling unwell or are self-isolating – send a meal home instead.
  • Have only one person serve food and prepare plates rather than passing around bowls and using common utensils.
  • Try to limit the amount of time you spend together.
  • Drop off care packages to the front porches of loved ones, which include your traditional assortment of favourite goodies