Because we work outside, we at Mirage Landscaping are lucky in that we can pretty much carry on with business as usual. But, there are several members of the Mirage extended family who had had their lives turned upside down in the space of a week. As we ease into the “new normal,” we’re all going to be spending a lot more time at home.
We recognize that this is an extraordinary time in Alberta and the world, and we fully support everything Alberta Health Services is doing right now to help slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
Recommendations for staying healthy include:
- Washing hands regularly and thoroughly
- Not touching your face
- Leaving your home only when necessary
- Ordering online when you can
- Not gathering in groups of more than 50 people
- Being diligent about cleaning and sanitizing
- Working from home if possible
- Practicing social distancing when out in public (the recommended distance is six feet)
These are all small things that are not that hard to do. For a couple days. The problem is that nobody is quite sure exactly how long it will be necessary to take these measures. When people get bored, they get reckless, which is exactly what we want to help avoid. With that in mind, we’ve put together a few productive things to do to pass the time until we are able to flatten the curve. Let’s all do our best to keep our population healthy and happy.
Stuff To Do Outside
Although we’re not exactly in quarantine, it’s close. Thankfully, we still have the opportunity to get outside. It looks like there will be a couple cool days next week, but for the most part the temperatures will be above freezing. The most obvious suggestions to pass the time in a healthy way is to go for a nice walk or a run to get some exercise, and maybe take advantage of some of the beautiful scenery along the way.
There are about 984 kilometres of pathways in Calgary, extending through every area of the city. In addition, several communities had pathways installed when developed. To get even more out of your excursion, you could even partake in one of the several outdoor gyms along the way.
“Spring” Home Maintenance
You could also pass the time by performing some late winter chores around the house. It’s not that much fun, but proper “spring” maintenance every year can greatly reduce your chance of expensive home repairs.
Outdoor chores
Don’t forget that it’s never too early to schedule your annual spring clean-up with us. We can’t wait to get back out again in full force and get everyone prepped to enjoy their yard during the long summer days.
It still too cold for downspout and gutter maintenance, as we’re still in a deep frost. But, hopefully with a few more days of warmer weather it will be time to check and make sure you don’t have any clogs of leaves and there are no fallen branches. Clean downspouts and gutters keep water well away from the foundation of your house. When you’re up there, also scan your roof to ensure it remains in good shape. Remember, a roof in poor repair can actually nullify your home insurance.
Certain fence repairs can be carried out as well. Above-ground boards that are broken can be replaced, and it won’t be too long before they can be painted.
Indoor Chores
- Put new batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test them
- Replace your furnace filter
- Recaulk kitchens and bathrooms
- Clean your kitchen exhaust hood and filter
- Vacuum your refrigerator coils
- Check your fire extinguisher
- Schedule an air conditioning inspection
- Check your siding and foundation
- Clean and install your screens
- Check your attic for leaks, mould and moisture
You could also pass the time by taking advantage of ENMAX’s Energy IQ tool, whether you can see how your home compares to others, how the weather affects your usage, see your costs over time, access energy savings tips, and more.
We’re Thinking of You!
Most of all, we just wanted to let you all know that we are thinking of you during this difficult time. We have seen incredible acts of kindness as well as incredible acts of bravery, and couldn’t be more proud to be residents of this great city. Please do all you can to ensure this outbreak is ended as quickly as possible so we can all go back to normal. We hope to see you all soon.
