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The rise in deaths and cases of COVID-19 across the nation and in our community reflects the urgent need for residents to follow guidance to help mitigate the virus. During the stay at home order residents are welcome to go outside but must adhere to the same social distancing guidelines that apply to indoors. When using a trail, at a park or walking in your neighborhood- stay at least 6 feet away from others.
"Spending time outside, exercising and getting out in the sun is a part of maintaining our physical and mental health,” said Delaware County Councilwoman Elaine Paul Schaefer. “It is imperative that, when people go outside to enjoy the trails and use open space, that they do so safely. We are urging residents to follow this guidance so our outdoor spaces can remain open.”
Councilwoman Schaefer gave the following guidance on outdoor social distancing:
When walking in your neighborhood, on a trail or in the woods, you must stay six feet away from anyone who is not in your immediate household.
If a trail is crowded, consider using another trail or using the trail during an off-peak time.
Avoid trails during busiest times which tend to be 3:30pm-5:30pm. Mornings tend to be less crowded on the trails.
Please keep your dog on a leash. Dogs are mingling and owners have to retrieve their dogs; which puts them in close proximity to other dog owners.
While State and County parks and trails are open, park buildings and facilities remain closed and no programs are being held at State or County parks.
Most municipalities and school districts have closed playgrounds and basketball courts in order to protect residents. Playground equipment and basketball hoops are places where germs can spread and those areas don’t allow for social distancing. Some municipalities and school districts have reported that children and teens are hopping over fences or ignoring the caution tape to access the playgrounds or basketball courts. Please adhere to closures and please talk to your children about the importance of adhering to the closures.
Local authorities and County authorities will be enforcing these rules.