Three ways to stay safe when visiting national parks

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected the daily routine of many people. As the months pass, many cities and establishments are slowly reopening. In some places, national parks and other attractions have already started welcoming guests but with strict health protocols. Janique Goff Madison is a photography student at San Diego State University. She practices her skills by visiting national parks where she can capture marvelous photos of plants and animals. For this blog, she shares three ways one can stay safe when visiting these public places.

1. Wear a mask

Janique Goff Madison says that many people are flocking to national parks to soak up the sun and to enjoy being surrounded by nature. But with the current pandemic, people need to take extra care when out in public. Health experts suggest wearing a mask when outdoors to prevent the spread of the virus. It's not just enough to just wear a mask. One must also wear it the right way to protect the nose and the mouth, preventing a person from contaminating others with their respiratory droplets. It's also important to wear a mask made of quality material to shield a person from harmful elements.

2. Practice physical distancing

Many parks are experiencing a high volume of visitors these days. Experts suggest practicing physical distancing for those who still want to spend an hour or two in nature. When traveling with the family or with a group, it's important to stay together and avoid mingling with those from other households to prevent the spread of the virus. Janique Goff Madison says that maintaining physical distance from others will allow a person to enjoy their time outdoors safely.

3. Avoid touching common surfaces or using public facilities

The virus can stay on surfaces for days. Common surfaces like railings, doors, and tables can be contaminated. Public facilities like benches, playgrounds, and picnic tables might have been used by individuals already infected with COVID-19. Janique Goff Madison advises park visitors to avoid touching or using these. If it can't be avoided, practicing hand hygiene or disinfecting the surfaces with wipes might help.

It's important to prioritize safety to enjoy a day outdoors. Though this means taking extra precautions, this will ensure the well-being of an individual and their household.