As Toronto establishments are getting ready to move into phase 3 of the “getting back to normal life” in the city, there are things we have to keep in mind. In this post, I would like to discuss some of those things.
First of all, and just to get this out of the way. Yes, life as we knew it is drawing closer to returning. Having said that, if this virus has taught us anything, it is that we are all vulnerable to something similar happening again. Therefore, most rational people should understand that a new normal must be set in place knowing that somehow, someway, this virus could still be out there waiting to prey upon its next victim. Everyone needs to understand that even if everything opens up again to exactly how it was. Things are going to change and be a little different in order to protect society from future outbreaks and diseases to come. Secondly, gone are the days of drink sharing and saliva swapping(kissing) randoms in public, (for the record I still expect this to happen quite a bit LOL!) without fear of catching Covid-19 or another similar illness. These are things we never had to think about before because it just did not hit close to home.
Anytime you are out at these locations whether it be a patio, restaurant, or bar, you need to take precautions. This is because being in close proximity to others increases your chances of becoming sick. Many people can be asymptomatic, meaning they can still be ill and not display any symptoms. These people are called carriers, so when you are out that is something which has to be kept in mind. Mainly because it is still out there not having gone anywhere just yet. Having said this, many places are taking the necessary precautions with hand sanitizer and limiting the number of patrons allowed in at one time. Not to mention lots of places are still only offering delivery services and preventing people from dining and drinking in. One of the best things we can do for ourselves and others is to wear a mask when physical distancing is not possible. This greatly reduces the risk of widespread exposure while in a crowd. Distancing from others is how this virus is going to be beat and reduced. It is important that people follow the rules and guidelines put forth by our local health departments. Recently, there has been an uptick in cases involving young people in Ontario (aged 40 and under). Primarily due to this group ignoring requests not to congregate in large crowds for parties, BBQs, drinks, food, etc… you name it. Heck, Brampton has already been busted how many times now for hosting “secret/underground” parties. There was even one not too long ago that had around 200 people with bouncers and strict rules not to post anything on social media. Come on people, I know its summer and people want to enjoy themselves, but at what cost?
I do not want this virus to last any longer than the next person, but the sooner we do what is needed the faster it can be eradicated. We do not want to still be dealing with this virus come wintertime, and god forbid next summer. Everyone wants things back to normal, but what some people do not realize is that they are the ones delaying this process from happening. It is not the time to be selfish and sacrifice everything for self-enjoyment. We must think about our older relatives, who may not be able to recover from contracting something like this. If you do not want to listen to the regulations for yourself, at least do it for them. All of us have people in our lives that we care about and love. These are the individuals who are most vulnerable and need us more than ever right now.
Some other precautions that locations are taking, is that they are opening access to sidewalks. Meaning that tables are being set up outside establishments, to accommodate people that would normally be inside to wine and dine. Of course, any extra additions to restaurants and bars have to follow government-enforced physical distancing guidelines. Overall, this is great news because it allows businesses to generate much-needed revenue that they have not been able to, these past months. Extra spacing for establishments means more patrons can come and enjoy themselves while helping to support local hangouts. Seeing as how so many people are eager to check places out, bars and restaurants can expect customers to arrive once again. As we get into phase 3, more places have opened up not only on sidewalks but roads too. This is possible due to careful planning by the city of Toronto, which also considers not impeding traffic or pedestrian walkways. One thing that customers can use now is the restrooms of establishments which are indoors, so that is positive. Many of these signs are encouraging as they signal a step in the right direction, in terms of our economy/jobs returning.
All places want to create enjoyable experiences for visitors to their locations. Doing this while keeping everyone safe and following the rules is a top priority. Once this virus starts to diminish more and more, the goal is to help keep Toronto businesses safe and open for good, while providing excellent service. Ultimately, this can only be done now in 2020 and beyond with health being at the forefront. Whenever people are in a close area together for an extended period of time talking, laughing, drinking, and eating the risks goes up. So, this concludes that the precautions need to also elevate and be held to a higher standard than previously imagined.
Keep safe everyone, look out for one another, and be smart out there.
Thank you until the next one, signing off.
Matt (Team 6ixhappening)