Parks, beaches get new summer guidelines
Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has safety measures that include social distancing
The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has issued new safety guidelines for beachgoers, boaters and hikers in advance of an expected busy Memorial Day weekend.
State parks that feature beaches along the shoreline will open Friday with capacity limitations and the following recommended social distancing guidelines:
■ Visitors to shoreline parks must maintain 15-feet of space from other beachgoers, blanket to blanket. The distance will allow for a six-foot radius around each person or family and a three-foot walkway in between groups, according to DEEP officials.
■ Based on the limited size of beaches and swimming areas at inland state parks, those beaches will be closed and swimming will be prohibited due to the potential for overcrowding. DEEP officials will consider reopening those areas on a case-by-case basis.
■ Officials urge visitors to shoreline parks to select locations close to home and to consider visiting early in the morning before crowds gather. At least six feet of social distancing must be maintained and groups over five remain prohibited.
■ Visitors are encouraged to recreate with members of their immediate household and not meet up with others, officials said. They should also bring face coverings and wear them when in close proximity to others. Face coverings should not be worn in the water, officials said.
■ Restroom buildings will not be open but most locations will have portable toilets available.
DEEP officials said they will reduce parking capacity and close beaches for the day if social distancing cannot be maintained and they will consider longer-term closures if warranted.
Lifeguards will not be on shoreline beaches in state parks early in the season. Officials said they expect the beaches to be staffed with lifeguards when adequate staffing, training and safety practices are in place.
State campgrounds, cabins, youth sites, back country and river camping are closed until at least June 11.
Updates on closures will be posted at state parks and on the department’s Twitter feed: @CTStateParks.