In the ongoing fight to prevent damage to parks and recreation facilities as coronavirus-weary Pennsylvanians seek outdoor relief, the Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society and Get Outdoors PA have released a new guide for safe enjoyment of the outdoors.
“Access to our parks and greenspaces matter more than ever for our mental and physical health,” reads the announcement. “Yet as more people have sought relief in their local parks and trails, their impacts have produced a new set of challenges.
The New Outdoor Etiquette suggests the following tips to keep yourself, others, and our parks and greenspaces safe and healthy:
Check first. Before you head out, check with park owners and trail stewards on open and closed access. Pack what you need. Use the restroom at home. Most park facilities are closed.
Be considerate. Wear a mask to protect others, as recommended by state and federal authorities. Practice physical distancing of six feet or more between individuals. Be friendly.
Avoid risky activities that put you at greater risk of injury, as available help and rescue services may be limited.
Notice nature. Be more attentive to nearby wildlife activities and the emergence of spring than your electronic devices. Soak up the limited time you have with nature for its fullest benefit.
Avoid playgrounds. Play structures cannot be maintained in sterile condition. It is best to avoid them entirely during this time.
Avoid overcrowding. If a parking lot is full, go to another lot, or another park or trail. Making your own parking spaces damages the landscape.
Leave no trace. Carry out everything you take in with you, including dog waste.
No fires, no smoking. Springtime is Pennsylvania’s riskier wildfire season, and this spring follows a mild winter with less snowfall.
The New Outdoors Etiquette guide is available to download.
The Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society is the statewide professional association for those who work and volunteer in the field.
Get Outdoors PA works to connect citizens with outdoor recreation activities while imparting a message of environmental stewardship and healthy living.
Full coronavirus coverage: https://www.pennlive.com/coronavirus/
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Contact Marcus Schneck at mschneck@pennlive.com.