TAPE

CultureCanadian

Date2020

Dimensions85 x 8 cm

Object numberHF.2020.11.7

DescriptionA small section from a roll of yellow caution barricade tape. Tape is translucent with CAUTION printed in black.
Narrative

When the COVID pandemic began, it was unclear how the virus was fully transmitted. In the beginning, items that were high touch were either removed, blocked or thoroughly sanitized. Unable to meet public safety measures, public playgrounds were completely closed. With the numerous restrictions that existed, including staying home, families without access to a yard were cut off from access to green space and playgrounds. This piece of tape came from the accessible playground in Victoria Park, one of only two such areas in Charlottetown. For some children, removing the access to this playground was a massive isolating factor and an impact on both physical and mental well being.?

At the beginning of the pandemic, with so many unknowns, decisions needed to be made quickly to limit spread and protect Islanders. It wasn't until much later, and on a global level, that the impacts of isolation and lack of accessibility to activities/routines were more recognized. COVID transmission was also more understood and while handwashing remained a consistently recommended public health measure by PEI's Chief Health Officer, Dr. Heather Morrison, it is generally accepted that the potential for contracting COVID through touching contaminated public items is a lower risk.??