In addition to putting on sunscreen or practicing safe handling of sparklers to protect from burns, there are some important tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe over the 4th of July holiday weekend.
It’s been a long year so far, and we understand that everyone wants to head outside and celebrate our nation’s birthday this weekend with friends, family and neighbors. There’s no reason not to enjoy the 4th of July celebrations as long as we all continue to be diligent about COVID-19 safety precautions.
Why Safety Precautions Are Still Needed
COVID-19 has continued to spread in our community and many others throughout the United States. If you catch the virus, you may have very mild symptoms but if you spread the virus to someone who is older or has an existing health condition, the virus could prove dangerous, even fatal, to them.
Masks are an important way to protect the ones you love. If you have COVID-19, you may not even feel sick but you can still pass along the virus. If you’re wearing your mask properly, it will help keep you from spreading harmful germs to others.
How To Stay Safe
There are a few simple ways to keep your friends and loved ones safe this 4th of July while still enjoying many of the usual festivities.
Keep Gatherings Small
One of the most important things we all need to do is to stay committed to social distancing. If you’re gathering with others over the holiday, it’s important to keep gatherings small - fewer than 10 people.
Social Distancing
During these small gatherings, it is equally important to stay outside whenever possible and maintain a 6 foot distance between people who do not live in the same household. Even family members who don’t live in the same home need to practice social distancing. Social distancing also means to avoid hugging, kissing, and shaking hands.
Wear a Mask
If a gathering is held indoors, moves inside due to rain, or it becomes impossible to maintain social distance, that means it’s time to put on a mask. A mask should always be worn whenever you are going to be in public or around others when you maintain a 6 foot distance.
Avoid Crowds
Whether or not you are able to wear a mask, it is still recommended to avoid large crowds even during outdoor activities. In our coastal area, there are a number of hot spots when it comes to 4th of July fun. While it may be tempting to jet off to a certain palm tree studded island or other popular boating destinations, this year, head for somewhere without the crowds if you’re planning to be out on the water.