New TCHD recommendation to close Recreational Facilities.

New Tompkins County Health Deparment recommendation to close all recreational facilities.

Download the details here.

The Health Department recommends closing all recreational facilities where equipment is shared. This includes playgrounds, basketball courts, tennis courts, pickle ball courts, soccer fields, etc. Other recreational facilities should also be closed if social distancing — at least 6 feet, or 2 adult armlengths between individuals — cannot be maintained. Signage is suggested at all trails and parks to encourage appropriate social distancing.


Even when you get outside and enjoy the outdoors, social distancing is critical to slowing the spread!

Getting outdoors to walk, jog, hike, garden, ride a bicycle or visit a park are healthy ways to stay active and reduce stress and anxiety while staying at home and social distancing. These are some simple ways you can protect yourself and your household from COVID-19 while enjoying the outdoors.

Important points:

  • Spend outdoor time alone, or with just one or two others at the most. Only interact with those in your immediate household.
  • Avoid close contact with anyone, even when outside. Keep a distance of more than 6 feet to help slow the spread of COVID-19. 6-feet is two adult arm lengths.
  • Do not play games or do activities that require close contact.
  • Don’t share equipment such as bicycles, helmets, balls or frisbees.
  • Avoid frequently touched surfaces and objects. This includes playground equipment like slides and swings.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Cover your cough and sneezes with a tissue and discard the tissue in a closed container.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol:
    • When you return indoors,
    • before and after eating,
    • after using the restroom,
    • after coughing or sneezing, and
    • after touching surfaces or items that may be contaminated.

If you are sick or had contact with someone who is sick in the last 14 days:

  • You should stay home.
  • You may enjoy spending time in your own backyard or other personal outdoor space but should not go into public outdoor spaces.

Source: https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/factsheets/coronavirussocialdistance#outdoors

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