TVDSA Protocols for In-Person Activities and Events

TVDSA is happy to announce that we have made considerable changes to our protocols moving forward. We will still require sanitation procedures and will encourage healthy environment habits.

Generally speaking, we are changing to an “enhanced normal” status. This means that most of the requirements have been lifted, however, please be mindful of good hygiene habits and personal space. Some participants may still choose to utilize PPE and distance. Respect others choices and Be Kind.

TVDSA is utilizing the Idaho Central District Health (CDH) and Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines to protect the public, as well as our members and volunteers, from the COVID-19 pandemic. Keep in mind, due to the nature of our membership and their elevated risk factors, some of our requirements may be more stringent than those offered by the CDC and CDH. Additionally, our updates will most likely lag the public guidance; however, TVDSA will make changes as new info is available in a deliberate and measured way.  We want to avoid the “waffling” effect that occurs when changes are made prematurely then have to be moved back again. 

NOTE: Event Leads will be provided with kits containing PPE (personal protective equipment) and other supplies as well as a quick-read thermometer.  We request that you bring your own PPE if you are more comfortable with that.  If your mask is not compliant, you may be asked to use one provided for you.

All TVDSA Leads, Staff and Volunteers will follow the same guidance as Participants.

By attending a TVDSA activity or event, you and any minors in your care agree to follow these protocols and rules:

General Guidance

• Participants must RSVP and receive a confirmation of attendance from the event organizer before attending a TVDSA event/activity. Currently we will NOT be allowing drop-ins to activities/events.
• Six feet of social distancing will be recommended between individuals not of the same household.
• Participants and Staff will wash hands or use hand sanitizer frequently.
• Please stay home when sick or when exhibiting any of the following symptoms:
  • Fever (99.5 F or higher)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • New loss of smell or taste
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
• Cough/Sneeze into your elbow.
• Avoid touching your nose/face and that of others.
• Staff will still have PPE available for those participants that still wish to use them.

TVDSA Staff will:

• Ensure the meeting area will be Cleaned/Sanitized as needed.
• Enforce guidelines listed above.
• Provide sanitizer and other PPE as needed for participants.
• Self sanitize between interactions with participants as needed.

Event Participants will:

• Comply with guidelines listed above.
• RSVP to the event as required.
• Self sanitize when arriving at the event.
• Comply with instructions from TVDSA Staff

Outdoor Events

• Activities and events can be held outdoors. 
• The number of participants will not be limited by policy, however, please note that the number of participants for each event/activity may vary and will be left up to the discretion and comfort of the event organizer.
• All general guidance listed above must be followed.

Water Specific Events

For water specific event we are also following the CDC guidance. The CDC is not aware of any scientific reports of the virus that causes COVID-19 spreading to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, water playgrounds, or other treated aquatic venues. Our guidance would apply for both public and private water venues.

We will observe identical protocols when participants are NOT in the water, wearing masks, maintaining social distancing and such as noted above.

Indoor Activities/Events

• Activities and events can be held indoors. 
• The number of participants will not be limited by policy, however, please note that the number of participants for each event/activity may vary and will be left up to the discretion and comfort of the event organizer.
• All general guidance listed above must be followed.

We recognize that this is a difficult and unusual situation and appreciate your understanding and cooperation. If you do not feel that you can follow these protocols, we ask that you not participate in any current in-person TVDSA activities or events. These protocols will be updated to comply with any changes the CDH and the CDC may make to their COVID-19 policies and recommendations.

Stay Positive, Stay Healthy, Stay Safe.