Outdoor Playgrounds In Oakland County Can Open Friday

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — Oakland County Health Officials are rescinding an emergency health order closing outdoor playgrounds. While indoor playgrounds in the county will remain closed, outdoor playgrounds will be able to reopen Friday, with social distancing.

The county said it is providing a day of preparation and recommends that playground operators utilize signage and other methods to remind visitors of coronavirus protocols, which include practicing social distancing, wearing a face covering, covering for coughs and sneezes and frequent hand washing.

The county recommends the following actions when visiting park, beach or recreational facilities:

• Stay at least six feet from others at all times. This can make some open areas, trails, and paths safer to use. Do not enter a crowded area.
• Minimize gathering with others outside of your household.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Keep hand sanitizer with you for times when soap and water are not available.

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Outdoor areas generally require normal routine cleaning and do not require disinfection, the county said. Spraying disinfectant on outdoor playgrounds is not an efficient use of disinfectant supplies and has not been proven to reduce the risk of the coronavirus to the public, the county said. Residents should maintain existing cleaning and hygiene practices for outdoor areas.

The county said that, if practical, high touch surfaces made of plastic or metal, such as grab bars and railings, should be cleaned routinely. Cleaning and disinfection of wooden surfaces or ground covers is not recommended.