By Melissa DeGennaro

Memorial Day weekend! The holiday always signals the start of the summer season at the Jersey Shore. With beaches now open, and physical distancing and other health and safety measures in place to keep beach goers safe, what will our pandemic summer look like, and how can you safely enjoy the summer with your family and friends?

Scott J. Druckman, D.O., primary care specialist, shared some details about what we should expect our summer to look like while coronavirus is still a threat.

What to know before you head to the beach

Be sure to check out your local township and beach websites to find out more information about the availability of beach badges, and restrictions for that beach. The beaches and boardwalks will have task forces in place to ensure that people are physical distancing, and listening to the rules. Beaches are also implementing limited occupancy in public restrooms and sanitization protocols.

Everyone loves the summer at the Jersey Shore, and it’s important to follow the rules and regulations set by local officials to keep you, your family, and friends safe. And if you’re heading to the beach, or doing any sort of outside activities, always remember to wear sunscreen to protect yourself from sun damage.

Can we still go in the pool and do water activities?

You can absolutely enjoy a splash in your pool, or set up outdoor water tables to play with your kids. There is no evidence that the virus can spread to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, spas, or water play areas. Proper operation and maintenance (including disinfection with chlorine and bromine) should inactivate the virus in the water. You should limit the amount of people you have in the pool, and make sure that you continue to physical distance, wash your hands and follow the CDC guidelines.

What can we do to keep our kids active?

Parents are faced with the prospect of getting creative to find something to keep their already-cooped-up kids entertained. In-person summer camps are still an option, but with modifications in place to abide by safety and cleaning protocols. Some summer camps are doing virtual camps where kids can still enjoy the activities and social interaction from the safety of their home. Parents can also work on a summer schedule for their kids to keep them in a routine, and set aside play time with organized activities such as a traditional game of kick ball, biking or walking as a family, water balloons, or even sitting outside playing a board game together. It’s also important to remember that if kids are playing outside with other kids they must maintain social distancing, and if they are unable to maintain social distancing, they should be wearing a mask if over the age of two.

What should we avoid?

Typical summer pastimes such as barbeques, outdoor concerts, crowded bars and restaurants, or taking in a movie on a rainy day will look different this year. However, there are still many ways to enjoy those activities and abide by the health and safety guidelines. You can host a virtual barbeque or happy hour, enjoy a concert while sitting outside courtesy of celebrities and social media live streaming, or order takeout from your favorite beach town restaurant.

While our summer may not be the crowded beach scene it once was, and events with crowds are not possible, we can all work together to make our summer fun, relaxing, healthy and safe.

Next Steps & Resources

Water and COVID-19 FAQs

Governor Murphy’s Executive Order – Beaches, Boardwalks, Lakes, and Lakeshores

Are Flip-Flops Bad for Your Feet?

How to Properly Wear a Facemask

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.