Importance of Following Public Health Measures over the Holidays

December 14, 2020 - Defence Stories

With the holidays fast approaching, many teams across National Defence will want to find ways to mark the holidays and boost morale. Unfortunately, this year is unlike any other and it will be important that we celebrate the holidays responsibly to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Respecting the limits imposed by regional public health authorities by minimizing the number of people gathered, both at DND/CAF facilities and at home, will be key throughout the holidays.

Amendments to the CDS/DM Directive for the Resumption of Sustained Activities in a COVID-19 Environment (Fall 2020 Posture) indicate that:

• CAF and DND members are urged to limit indoor gatherings to immediate household members during the holiday period, except when reuniting with primary next of kin.
• Mess Dinners are not currently permitted this year.

Public Health officials are urging Canadians to avoid “3Cs settings” wherever possible over the holidays:

• Closed spaces with poor ventilation;
• Crowded places where many people gather; and
• Close contact situations.

Many Defence Team members have found safe and creative ways to continue our work during the COVID-19 pandemic. We encourage you to apply that same creativity to finding alternative ways to enjoy the holidays. For example, some ideas include:

• Instead of in-person gatherings or meals, try a virtual meal;
• Host a gingerbread house decorating contest and have the judging take place during a team video call;
• Have each member of the team share their favourite holiday recipe; and
• Come together to support a local family in need with toy or food donations.

For those who must travel in the coming weeks, remember to follow local direction and public health advice for that region.

Additional safety information for the holidays can be found on the Government of Canada COVID-19 website.

While this isn’t our usual holiday celebration, we thank each and every one of you for your collaboration and efforts to keep our communities safe and healthy. Together we can make a difference and stop the spread of COVID-19.