Now that patronage of Town park facilities has increased, due to the re-opening of park amenities and the nice weather, it is important that all park patrons practice safe social distancing guidelines. Additionally, masks are currently required in public when safe social distancing cannot be maintained. This applies to all park amenities including bicycle pump track, athletic fields and courts, pavilions, etc.
Playing in Playgrounds – Children in playgrounds should wear masks or cloth face coverings and practice safe social distancing with guidance from adults. The CDC recommends all people 2 years of age and older wear a mask in public settings and when around people who don't live in their household. The NC and Orange County mandate requires face coverings for people 5 years old and up.
Kindness and Respect – If you are able to safely maintain at least six (6) feet distance from others, you do not need to wear a face covering when exercising outdoors, according to NC DHHS guidance posted at https://files.nc.gov/covid/documents/guidance/NCDHHS-Interim-Guidance-on-Face-Coverings.pdf However, it is recommended that you take a mask along whenever you leave home and wear it. When you are unable to maintain adequate distancing from others, you must wear the mask. We wear a mask because it helps keep everyone safe, and to show kindness and respect for others.
Social Distancing and Minimizing Exposure – Social distancing is a key tool we currently have to decrease the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing (“physical distancing”) means keeping space between yourself and other people outside of your home. Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people; do not gather in groups; stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings.
For more information about the current requirement for face coverings, Orange County offers a Face Coverings FAQ. Click the link below for more information:
Face Coverings FAQ - English (PDF)
Face Coverings FAQ - Español (PDF)
Face Coverings FAQ - Chinese (PDF)
Additional information, including audio files in other languages, is available HERE.
Please help limit the spread of COVID-19 and help everyone enjoy a safe public park experience by wearing a mask and adhering to social distancing guidelines.