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By Martin Martinson

Spring cleaning begins

Garage sale season set for takeoff in the Battlefords

Jul 22, 2020 | 3:11 PM

It is said one person’s trash is another’s treasure, and for Battlefords and area residents – like so many others across Saskatchewan – treasure hunting season is set to begin this week.

Tuesday afternoon the Government of Saskatchewan announced garage sales could be held once again.

The announcement comes as a welcome one to many in the community, looking to unclutter during a late-season spring cleaning, following months of being cooped up at home.

“I think people have had things ready to go since last season,” North Battleford Mayor, Ryan Bater said with a laugh. However, as he was also quick to point out, things still remain far from the status quo; continued restrictions still remain in place due to the ongoing pandemic.

Bater said many of the stipulations are things that people have been practicing for the last few months, while others have been put in place in an effort to keep the numbers of people coming in direct contact with each other down.

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“If you’re not feeling well, don’t have a garage sale and don’t go to one, [but] that should go for everything,” Bater said. “If you’re not feeling well, stay home and take care of yourself.

“The sales are [also] to be hosted by a single family,” the Mayor continued. “Group sales are not permitted and that includes extended households. If you’re going to have a garage sale it’s your family in that household only [contributing items to be sold].”

Also among the fundamental changes to traditional garage sales will be the increased emphasis on holding sales either outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, such as a garage with open doors.

With social distancing standards still in place as well, the province is requiring signs be in posted, promoting a two-meter physical distance between those attending the sale.

Those hosting must also clean and disinfect the tables and all sale items prior to the sale, and as items are picked up throughout the day.

Those selling clothing or fabric are asked to launder it beforehand; while the supplying of food or drink to patrons, even if given freely, will be prohibited during this time.

Lastly, the province is suggesting people hosting garage sales use ‘cashless transactions’ wherever possible. This means using email transfers and other minimal-contact payment methods when available.

When cash transactions are completed, people are asked to remain diligent in their hand washing or sanitization after the money has exchanged hands.

For more information on provincial guidelines regarding garage sales, click here.

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Martin.Martinson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: MartyMartyPxP1