Several local leaders in Kamloops are concerned about a “Float the River” event planned on August 8.
At time of posting, the event on Facebook has more than 900 people “interested,” and nearly 100 people “going.” It’s planned to start at noon at the Valleyview Boat Launch.
The event page does not have names for hosts, but the page tells people to respect social distancing.
Kamloops deputy mayor Dale Bass says she hopes people don’t blow it.
“Our staff is aware of what’s going on, our bylaw officers are out watching. I’m fully confident there will be bylaw officers in place, and perhaps some of our lifeguard ambassadors in place. To ensure and to remind that distancing is required. That masks are advised. That there’s a limit to the size of group you could put together,” Bass says.
“We have to be careful whenever we’re bringing groups of people together. Particularly now, as COVID appears to be on the rise again. And I have concerns about this, because no one knows exactly how many people will converge on what is not a very big boat ramp.”
Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Todd Stone says the event is a bad idea during the pandemic.
“Now is not the time for dozens, let alone potentially hundreds of people to congregate on the South Thompson River in Valleyview. Don’t do it,” Stone says.
The Interior Health Authority says this event would be classified as an event.
“All events are limited to a maximum of 50 guests. Both organizers and guests have the responsibility to follow this order,” spokesperson Karl Hardt says.
“We have seen that a few gatherings can unintentionally cause a dramatic rise in COVID-19 cases. Everyone’s priority right now should be to bend the curve in Interior Health back.
“We know a float down the river is a summer tradition for many in the Kamloops area and there are ways to do this safely. We are urging people to take extra consideration and care entering the long weekend and the weeks ahead. Keep your groups small and to people you know – to your bubble – and avoid larger gatherings before and after your float. Maintain your distance from other groups.”