Getting Outside Safely ☀ New Outdoor Restrictions

April 2, 2020

These are difficult times and even more difficult times to be cooped up inside! Between spring showers have been beautiful days of sunny splendor. Spring is blossoming all around us, and have you seen the pictures of the seal hanging out at Second Beach?

Despite the beautiful weather, we are instructed to stay inside to stay safe. ‘Social distancing’ – a term that didn’t even exist just a month ago – is the new norm and is our greatest tool in battling the spread of this disease.

State-wide and municipal orders are instructing us to not gather in groups – whether at home or in public. Stay apart to stay safe is our new mantra.

Here are the most recent updates from the municipal and state levels about outdoor activities:

The City of Newport has announced that parking areas adjacent to the Cliff Walk, Easton’s Beach, and Braga Park will be closed until further notice beginning Friday, April 3rd. Recreational facilities, including the City’s network of playgrounds, tennis courts, and basketball courts, also remain closed for the time being.

The City notes: “Newport’s parks and open space may still be enjoyed for the purpose of exercise or in small groups, however police will be monitoring for gatherings over five (5) people as part of a citywide open air compliance check program.”

The Town of Middletown has placed similar parking lot closures on its parks and beaches.

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has temporarily closed the state-run parks and beaches. This announcement from DEM applies to Fort Adams State Park and Brenton Point State Park.

What does all this mean?

In short, our government leaders are encouraging us to stay safe by keeping a safe distance from others. These are not edicts to not ever step foot outside, they are measures to keep us from spreading the virus. Our leaders are recommending that we stick closer to home and not drive to other areas to recreate. 

Natural beauty is all around us – in our backyards, in the sky, in our neighborhoods. As difficult as it is to avoid our favorite natural areas, these measures are only temporary and will save lives. It is possible to follow these guidelines and enjoy nature and the outdoors to improve your physical and mental health.

Here are some ways you can enjoy the outdoors, safely:

  • Go for a walk in your neighborhood with someone you live and/or with or your dog, practicing social distancing.
    • It’s okay to wave and say ‘hi’ to others walking down the street!
  • Sit outside in a yard, garden, or on your stoop to enjoy the sunshine.
  • Open your window to enjoy the natural sounds of birdsong.
  • Enjoy one of these 50 Nature-Based Activities for Rhode Islanders from Rhode Island State Parks (haga clic aquí para Español).
  • Bring nature inside! Listening to nature sounds can have a similar effect to being outdoors. Check out this forest birdsong video, take a deep breath, and relax.

Call your healthcare provider if stress gets in the way of your daily activities for several days in a row.

Newport County Mental Health remains a frontline healthcare provider and remains open. They are available for appointments, their number is 401-846-1213 both for emergency and non-emergency situations.

Stay healthy and we will all get through this together!