BMFA email 17 March 2020 to all members
Full text of the BMFA email in case you have missed it:
Model flying and the COVID-19 Virus – News Release 17-3-2020
We have been monitoring the current situation carefully and have been awaiting clear guidance from the Government before making decisions relating to general model flying and BMFA Model flying events, contests and roadshows.
It is clear that the COVID-19 situation is developing rapidly in the UK and members should keep themselves updated on current government and NHS advice. Please see https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response for the latest information.
Members are advised to follow the precautions provided by the NHS at all times details of which you can find here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
Model Flying in the club environment
In general terms model flying represents a low risk activity due to the predominantly outdoor nature of the activity and the opportunity to maintain inter-personal separation.
At this time, and subject to any updated government advice/instruction, for those who are not unwell there is little reason to curtail outdoor model flying activities in the club environment. The well-being benefits provided by model flying should be balanced by the potential risk and NHS precautions should be followed.
While there is little reason to curtail normal outdoor flying activities, clubs should consider what action to take regarding indoor club meetings and any proposed or scheduled larger events they have planned which, under present guidance, may have to be cancelled or postponed.
BMFA Organised events, contests and roadshows
The BMFA is currently reviewing the status of scheduled events. Several events/contests are already subject to cancellation including the Swapmeet at BMFA Buckminster, the ASRC Roadshows and the Free Flight Nationals. Planning for the Power Nationals in August is continuing on the assumption that it will be going ahead, but this will be kept under review.
Members should keep checking the Contest and Event calendar on the BMFA website for status updates on specific contests and events. Should contest/event organisers wish to amend/update their entries on the BMFA Calendar, please contact the office or complete the online request form here: https://e-forms.bmfa.org/event-amend.
BMFA Office
The BMFA Office functions will remain in operation, though the office may not be physically staffed to the usual level and we regret that for the time being we are no longer able to welcome visits from BMFA Members. We have measures in place to ensure that support for members and clubs continues. Please use admin@bmfa.org as the primary means of contact.
Important note:- Please stay at home and do not attend flying sessions, events, contests or meetings if:
- you have been in contact with a COVID-19 patient
- you are unwell, with a high temperature and/or a new continuous cough
- you have serious underlying health issues
Kind Regards
All at the BMFA
Tel: 0116 2440028
email: admin@bmfa.org
The Society of Model Aeronautical Engineers Limited T/A The British Model Flying Association
A company limited by guarantee. Registered in England Number 457067
Registered office Chacksfield House, 31 St Andrew’s Road, Leicester, LE2 8RE