With many businesses reopening this past week and summer in full bloom, many people are wondering if there are any summer activities out there that you can engage in with caution. I just recently listened to an episode of a WebMD podcast and a doctor shared some insights on how we could be safe and still enjoy summer. Here are four summer activities he mentions that is okay to do as long as we are being careful.
Wear a Facemask at the Beach if necessary
You could still enjoy a nice day at the beach. Just be sure you bring your mask and maintain the required social distance from others. It isn’t necessary to have it on while maintaining six feet or more distance. But if you come to a predicament where you end up having close interactions with people, you better be sure to have your armor on you.
Taking a Walk at the Park with Someone
Another activity mentioned in the podcast is taking a walk in the park. If you want to go out with a friend to enjoy the summer breeze, you’re welcome to do so. Just make sure you are following the protocol of six feet distance and wearing a mask.
Please be sure to do these things even when talking to your friend. Respiratory droplets can contain the virus if you are infected. The louder your voice is when speaking, the faster the air comes out of your mouth. This will lead to more respiratory droplets traveling far in the air. So you may not want to spend so much time talking to your friend face to face.
Playing Tennis
Sports that involve close contacts, such as basketball and football, have postponed their seasons, and fewer people have been playing them. However, one good sport that is considered reasonably safe is tennis. It doesn’t involve as much contact as the other sports. Just be sure you’re not potentially transmitting the virus on the ball. Avoid putting your hands on your face and transmitting anything to the ball.
Going for a Drive
Driving is a little different than flying because you’re able to control your risk better. You could wear gloves while pumping gas in your car. Be sure to sanitize your hands afterward. Another way to lower your chances of contraction is by paying at the pump instead of in the store. So if you’re thinking about going on a road trip this summer, just make sure you have everything you need to stay safe.
These are some of the activities that were mentioned in the podcast episode that is okay to do. Just make sure you are doing them with caution. For more information, check out the WebMD podcast, “What’s Safe? What’s Risky? Tips for Our New Normal.”
