After months of anticipation, The Flames were back on home ice this week training for the NHL's resumption of play next month. 

The NHL playoffs get going on Saturday, August 1, which can't come soon enough for eager fans looking to get their fill of hockey action, after a four-month void.

Not only will the playoffs look different for the players this year, playing in empty stadiums, but the typically bustling viewing parties inclusive of celebratory high-fives and hugs during playoff season are being strongly discouraged this year.

Alberta's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, put out the reminder this week to both fans and business owners looking at hosting a large group to cheer on their favourite team. Hinshaw says that it's important to remain vigilant and respectful of AHS guidelines.

Dr. Hinshaw says that the responsibility remains in the hands of establishments to control the capacity, implement social distancing as well as stay on top of sanitary procedures.

Hinshaw says "Again, I would encourage all of us, both as individuals and anyone who is responsible for a location of businesses or an organization to take it as a point of pride to limit the possibility that spread could happen in that location."

Flames will take on  the Winnipeg Jets in the first round qualifying series which is set to begin on August 1 at Rogers Place in Edmonton.