As summer approaches, we are all pretty excited to have some free time and get outside. Although we are all happy, we have to remember that we are still in a pandemic and we have to be safe for the benefit of everyone. There are ways to stay safe this summer and ways to go about seeing friends and family. 

Remember to wear a mask especially if you have not had a COVID-19 vaccination. Masks protect everyone from the spread of the virus and help stop it at the source. The vaccination will not stop the virus from spreading from person to person so consider wearing a mask when in crowded places. You will still be required to wear them in some stores and in most public transportation. Keep the masks clean and try not to get them wet as that can cause trouble for breathing. 

For events that are outdoors, try to distance yourself from others that you don’t live with. You never know who somebody has been in contact with and who they have been in contact with, and so on. As the CDC says, “The more closely you interact with others and the longer that interaction, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spread.” Try to stay around six feet away from people you do not live with. Events should also be well ventilated and preferably outside. If inside, keep windows and doors open.  

Disinfection is also important to staying safe. When you wash your hands with soap and water it should be for at least 20 seconds. However, when hand washing is not available use hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol. Disinfect objects that people come in contact with like, door handles, phones, keys, and other shared. Also limit sharing items that cannot be cleaned or are more difficult to clean. 

With all of those things in mind there are still many things that you can do to stay safe this summer. Outdoor exercising, picnics and backyard meet-ups are good things to do as the ventilation is good. Instead of pools with many people, consider swimming in lakes or beaches for greater social distancing. Instead of theaters, watching online with friends using sites like TeleParty. Visiting family and friends can be fun, but remember to follow precautions not only to keep yourself and them safe but for anyone they could come in contact with.