Maintain physical distancing when using parks and community trails for walking and running

posted on: 4/27/2020

Dover Fire Chief Paul Haas, the city's Emergency Management Director, is reminding people to practice physical distancing when using the city's parks and trails for walking or running. The City's parks and trails are closed to all other activities.

"We recognize that people are eager to get some fresh air by taking a walk or running along our community trails and in our parks," Haas said. "We certainly encourage that activity, but it's imperative that people be respectful of others by practicing responsible physical distancing and refraining from congregating in groups."

To help slow the community spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, the City earlier this month closed public parks, playgrounds and outdoor sports areas, limiting activity to walking or running for fresh air or exercise only, as permitted in Gov. Chris Sununu's Emergency Order #17.

Residents and families are reminded to practice physical distancing with their children and follow guidelines from state and local health officials intended to curb community spread, including:

• Do not gather in groups of 10 or more.
• Maintain 6 feet of distance from other people at all times.
• Avoid touching surfaces including playground equipment, benches or other sports equipment that are handled by others.
• Do not participate in activities involving physical contact or the sharing of equipment such as team and contact sports.

For more information, call Dover Fire and Rescue at 516-6148.