More people are escaping to Coquitlam’s outdoor spaces for a break during the pandemic, but not everyone is properly disposing of their litter.
COQUITLAM, B.C., May 5, 2020 – More people are escaping to Coquitlam’s outdoor spaces for a break during the pandemic, but not everyone is properly disposing of their litter.
The City is reminding the public to help keep Coquitlam’s parks, trails and other green spaces clean for everyone’s safety and enjoyment. With the potential transmission of the coronavirus through surfaces, it’s more important than ever that litter is either packed out or disposed of in a safe manner.
Dispose of Waste Safely
The City has equipped park hosts with litter pickers and strongly encourages park and trail users to do the following:
- Take your waste home. Whenever possible, take home any waste you bring or create, especially food or pet waste.
- Properly dispose of dog waste. Dog owners are reminded to dispose of their pet’s waste either in park waste bins, where available, or at home.
- Bag up all personal hygiene products. Put used tissues, masks, gloves, wipes and other hygiene items into plastic bags before placing them in the garbage.
- Open bear-proof handles on waste receptacles safely. Pack along wipes or gloves to use when touching the handles, and wash or sanitize hands before and after.
- Remember that bears may be in the area. Don’t leave behind food waste that will attract them, and don’t put household waste into park bins.
If park waste receptacles require maintenance or emptying, residents are asked to contact parkscustomerservice@coquitlam.ca or 604-927-6300.
Lend a Hand to Keep Parks and Trails Litter-free
Individuals and families who regularly enjoy the local trails are encouraged to help keep them clean by volunteering for the modified Adopt-a-Trail program. Certain requirements, such as minimum time commitments, have been relaxed during the pandemic to encourage more people to take part.
Instruction is provided by phone, and staff arrange for contact-less pickup of pickers, vests and bags. For information, contact 604-927-6312 or adoptatrail@coquitlam.ca, or visit www.coquitlam.ca/adoptapark.
Trail Etiquette During the Pandemic
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, residents who are walking, cycling or hiking outdoors are advised to:
- Stay home when sick or displaying any cold, allergy or flu symptoms;
- Stay two metres away from others not from their household, and leave if this isn’t possible;
- Follow all hygiene precautions, such as washing hands before and afterwards;
- Walk single-file and/or step off the trail when passing people;
- Warn other trail users of your presence when passing from behind, particularly if cycling; and
- Prepare for limited access to public restrooms or water fountains.
Be Informed
For up-to-date information regarding the COVID-19 impacts to City facilities, programs, services and events:
Coquitlam residents are encouraged to follow the City of Coquitlam on social media (Facebook and Twitter) and download the CoquitlamConnect mobile app for up-to-date City information.
For more information on COVID-19, including updates, answers to frequently asked questions, and translated information, please consult the following resources: