Vaccinations are helping many people across the globe return to something resembling normalcy after
more than a year of living in unusual circumstances. Sports venues are welcoming fans back in limited ca-
pacities, and many schools that had offered strictly virtual learning began to welcome students back for
in person learning by the end of the school year. Though the world seems to be on the cusp of get-
ting back to normal life, public health officials with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization continue to emphasize the importance of staying vigilant to stop the spread of COVID-19. Officials with the CDC have urged political leaders to keep social distancing and mask mandates in place even as the number of vaccinated Americans exceeded 100 million.
This summer people may be more comfortable getting out of the house to enjoy the great outdoors
than they were a year ago, especially if they’re vaccinated. Those who want to follow the advice of
public health officials can consider these strategies to keep themselves and others safe as they spend
time in nature. · Visit beaches during off-peak hours. Crowded beaches were a significant cause for concern in the summer of 2020. Many beach-goers did not wear masks and it proved difficult to practice social distancing on crowded beaches. This summer it may be most safe to visit beaches during off-peak hours, such as during the late afternoon. Beaches tend to be less crowded as the sun starts to set and dinnertime approaches, so people who want to stay safe but still hear waves crashing on the shore can visit the beach later in the day, even bringing dinner so they can enjoy a beach picnic. Wear masks when hiking. Hiking is a great way to enjoy all that nature has to offer. Hiking trails likely won’t be as crowded as sunny beaches, but it’s hard to stay six feet apart on narrow trails, especially when encountering hikers going in the opposite direction. Wear masks throughout your hike and afford fellow hikers as much room as possible on the trails.
· Consider private experiences. Whale watching adventures and group fishing excursions are popular
among vacationers and others who want to have a fun day on the water. Unfortunately, crowded boats
can make it easy for the virus to spread, especially if mask mandates have been lifted. Before booking
a day on a boat, inquire about the company’s safety protocols, including whether or not they’re limiting
capacity and insisting all guests wear masks. If not, consider a private boat just for your family or the peo-
ple within your bubble.
· Bring everything along. Bringing meals, water and snacks along on your trip into the great outdoors
can minimize your exposure to others. That reduces the likelihood that you will catch the virus or potentially spread it to others. Bringing your own food and water along also ensures you won’t go hungry or thirsty while on the trails or relaxing on the beach. People may feel more safe about enjoying the great
outdoors this summer than they did a year ago. But safety measures like mask wearing, social distancing
and avoiding crowds should remain a priority in the months ahead.
