STAYING SAFE ON THE TRAILS

Here are recommendations for trail users on observing social distancing minimums from the National Recreation and Park Association:

■ Follow the CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to heading to the trails — wash hands, carry hand sanitizer, do not use the trails if you have symptoms, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

■ Observe at all times CDC’s minimum recommended social distancing of six feet from other people. Practice it and know what it looks like. Keep it as you walk, bike or hike.

■ Warn other trail users of your presence and as you pass to allow proper distance and step off trails to allow others to pass, keeping minimum recommended distances at all times. Signal your presence with your voice, bell or horn.

■ Note that trail and park users may find public restrooms closed — be prepared before you leave and time outings so that you are not dependent on public restrooms.

■ Bring water or drinks — public drinking fountains may be disabled and should not be used, even if operable.

■ Bring a suitable trash bag. Leave no trash, take everything out to protect park workers.

■ Open spaces where the kids can run around: Garden Green at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroParks, open areas at Cox Arboretum, Carriage Hill and Possum Creek MetroPark.

■ Spot what’s in bloom in your yard or local green spaces.

■ Get some exercise outdoors — find a yoga, fitness or dance video online, bring your laptop or phone outside and get active outdoors.

■ Start a garden in your yard.

■ Nature play in your backyard — use natural materials to make a fort and play games.

From Angie Sheldon, MetroParks outdoor recreation program manager: