The coronavirus pandemic has considerably changed how most people move through their daily lives. You likely know that there have been some widespread changes and modifications in the way we socialize, how businesses operate, and how we exercise.
With the persistence of stay-at-home orders in many parts of the US, people are slowly getting more than a bit antsy cooped up inside. Note that this makes outdoor activities such as walking an excellent way to benefit from a change of scenery.
Spring is certainly in full bloom, with mild temperatures, sunny skies, and fresh flowers. However, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and strict physical distancing guidelines, many people may have difficulty enjoying the beautiful outdoors this spring.
For many people, outdoor recreation and activities are an essential aspect of daily life that will require some serious adjustment. Note that during this spring, protecting your health and the health of the people you love is most important.
With a grave public health crisis unfolding worldwide, we would like to offer some valuable guidelines and tips about how you should think about getting outside this spring in the safest and most responsible way.
Go Outside Cautiously
Refrain from going outside if you are sick or have been in close contact with people who have been sick. It is essential to maintain a safe distance from other people. This includes maintaining a safe distance in the car. Hence, if your session usually involves a shuttle, you have to plan accordingly.
You should avoid busy times of the day and crowded areas. Wash your hands regularly and follow all CDC guidelines carefully.
Choose a Mask Carefully
According to health experts, everybody in the US must wear a nonsurgical mask whenever going out in public. You know that masks considerably lower the spread of this virus. However, it is worth noting that the kind of mask that you wear can make a big difference.
Keep in mind that cloth masks are great as they can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 by restricting the spread of germs. Medical experts at Harvard Health state that medical-grade masks are best at blocking droplets which are emitted when somebody sneezes, coughs, talks, or breathes.
Steer Clear of Injuries
It is not a great time to get injured or hurt. This is because healthcare systems in the US are overwhelmed. So, don’t add to the burden. In addition to that, you would not like to set foot in a hospital right now.
Also, many elective surgeries will likely be on hold for some time. This is why if you blow out your ACL, you may be in for quite a long time.
Choose the Most Suitable Outdoor Space
While your own yard is the safest, that is not an option for all. You should, ideally, go somewhere where you will not encounter many people.
Outdoor Kit
Always have an outdoor kit readily available either in your vehicle or home stocked with essentials, such as face masks, hand sanitizer, bleach wipes, and gloves. This way, you can just grab your kit before any outdoor adventure or trip and know you are ready to safely leave your home.
Consider Your Transportation Options
Are you planning to hike, bike, or walk in a remote location? If so, you might want to consider the mode of travel. According to researchers, traveling in a car or vehicle with multiple individuals and windows closed may pose a serious risk if somebody in the vehicle is infected. They also contend that driving with open windows can help minimize exposure.
Only Go Outside With Your Family
While it is tempting to join your friends or another family for a hike or walk, it is difficult to keep 6 feet between you — and your kids may have a tough time with this.
Respect Closures
If parks and restaurants are closed, do not go. If they are open, you have to be very mindful of not putting too much burden on areas that may have limited maintenance or oversight. So, it is best to pack out your trash and use the bathroom before leaving the house.
Also, given the uneven and inconsistent federal response to this health crisis, you should consider all health recommendations as well as state requirements a minimum.
Practice Good Hygiene
There is no doubt that some basic hygiene practices and guidelines become more crucial during a flu outbreak or a health pandemic like COVID-19. Make it a habit to wash your hands both before and after you go out for a walk.
And health experts advise that you should not share water bottles and even lower the use of cell phones (to limit talking) whenever exercising indoors or outdoors in a gym.
Using hand sanitizer is imperative. You should sanitize any shared equipment (like a walking cane or a dog leash) before it’s passed between people from separate households.