Jeffco Parks Warns Of 'Concerning' Visits Amid Coronavirus Spread

Amber Fisher
·3 min read

JEFFERSON COUNTY, CO — Jeffco parks and trails remain open amid Colorado's stay-at-home order; however, there are concerns about crowding on trails and in parking lots.

In a letter to Jefferson County residents, officials acknowledged the need to get outside and exercise on trails, but issued a warning for those who aren't adhering to social distancing and COVID-19 parks guidelines.

"As more community members get outside, we’re seeing some concerning activities and potentially dangerous behaviors," the joint letter says. "We have every hope of keeping Jeffco parks and trails open for your enjoyment. To do this, we need your help."

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The county issued the following guidelines:

  • Do not leave your home unless you absolutely need to. This is especially important if you are sick, officials said. Until Colorado lifts its stay-at-home order, practice social distancing and reduce the spread of COVID-19.

  • Stay as close to home as possible. Try something in your own backyard, take a walk or bike ride around the block, or visit a neighborhood park (just leave any playground equipment untouched). Recreate only with people from your own household.

  • Don’t take risks, including unnecessary driving. First responders rush to every emergency call and physical distancing is not possible. Asymptomatic people, both individuals and rescuers, can spread COVID-19 before they are aware of symptoms. If either the individual or a rescuer later becomes symptomatic or tests positive, that entire group of rescuers will have to self-isolate for at least 14 days. This leads to fewer and fewer rescue personnel available to respond to emergencies quickly.

  • Avoid crowds. Parks and trailheads tend to be less busy early in the morning or late in the day.

  • Check Jeffco Open Space parking availability at seven popular parks before you go by downloading the LotSpot app or checking the Jeffco Open Space Website. Move on if a parking lot is full. Park only in designated spots or legally on the road shoulder.

  • Wear a cloth face-covering AND stay at least 6 feet away from others who are not in your household. New research suggests up to one in four people with COVID-19 may not have symptoms and can spread the disease to others. Face coverings offer minimal protection for the wearer, but they make a big difference in helping to protect others if a person is infected and doesn’t know it.

  • Follow all park regulations that apply to the park or trail you are visiting. This includes keeping your dog on a leash at all times and picking up and properly disposing of dog waste (don’t leave it alongside the trail).

  • Finally, be kind to others, Jeffco officials said. Remember, we’re all in this together and tensions are high. Keep your distance, be courteous, and perhaps send a wave to your neighbors when you pass them on the sidewalk or trail. You never know how much they may need it.

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This article originally appeared on the Lakewood Patch