The health and safety of all of our employees, participants, volunteers and guests remains our top priority as we work to stay up-to-date and respond appropriately to the continually evolving Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) situation occurring across the nation, and now here in the Coachella Valley. We want to assure everyone that Desert Recreation District will take all recommended and necessary measures to protect employee and public health. Specifically, we are constantly monitoring information and will be following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Riverside County Department of Public Health in regards to our services and events.
In addition, as of today, Governor Newsome has updated a March 4, 2020 Executive Order to include, among other updates, compliance with the following two items:
“Directs Californians to follow public health directives including canceling large gatherings more than 250 people” and
“All residents are to heed any orders and guidance of state and local public health officials, including but not limited to the imposition of social distancing measures, to confront the spread of COVID-19.”
We recognize that residents may be wondering what steps Desert Recreation District has taken, as well as thinking about what they can do to minimize the risk of exposure for themselves and family members. Effective immediately, the District is suspending all programing and closing our facilities with the possible exception of the ASES After School programs. In regard to the ASES programs, we will follow the direction of the Riverside County Office of Education. We will be flexible on our refund policy during this time.
We encourage anyone that may have potentially been exposed to Coronavirus 2019—either directly or through a member of their household—to seek the advice of a medical professional.
Part of the difficult decision to close our facilities was consideration that the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. As a reminder, the CDC always recommends everyday preventative actions to help avoid the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a disinfectant cleaning spray or wipe.
• Practice Social Distancing by staying six feet away from other individuals in public settings.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
o If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty
These closures are in effect from now through March 31, 2020. When more information becomes available, we will assess programming for the month of April and possibly beyond, depending on the conditions at that time. Policy updates will be communicated through normal methods including the District’s website, email, phone calls, and social media posts.
Please check at MyRecreationDistrict.com or call 760-347-3484 for the most current information.
