Even with warmer weather approaching, Philadelphia’s Stay at Home Order is still in place. COVID-19 will not go away with warmer temperatures. To help end the pandemic, you should stay home as much as possible. But exercise is also important! A walk, bike ride, or run can do wonders for your mental and physical health. If you decide to exercise in one of Philadelphia’s parks, here are some tips to stay healthy–and protect others too.

Home is where the health is.

• Stay home as much as possible. 
• If you’re sick, only leave home to see a health care provider.
• If you need exercise, stay local. Visit your neighborhood park if there’s one close by.

Timing is everything.

• Limit your park visits to one hour.
  This prevents the parks from getting too busy. It also creates space for others to enjoy being outside. 
• Go at less popular times of day.
  If you can get an early start, try visiting the park first thing in the morning. Parks may be busier during lunchtime or later in the day. 

Space yourself.

• Keep at least six feet apart.
  Make sure you are practicing physical distancing. Keep six feet apart from others in the park. 
• Walk alone or with your household.
  Warmer days are not an invitation to start hanging out with friends outside. We encourage you to take a solo walk, or with the members of your household. 
• Don’t stop to chat or gather.

Learn when, why, and how to wear a mask.

• You don’t need a mask to go for a walk, run, or bike ride alone or with someone you live with if and only if you stay at least six feet from others at all times.
• Choose places to exercise where you have room to keep your distance.
• Wear a gaiter or bandana around your neck. Pull it up over your mouth and nose if you will be passing someone else and cannot maintain distance.
• Read the Department of Public Health’s guidance on “Why, when, and how to wear a mask”.

Practice proper trail etiquette.

• Stay to the right, pass on the left. 
• Announce yourself when passing. Say “on your left” to let others know that you’re passing them on their left. 
• If you need to stop, move off the trail. 
• Keep at least six feet away others at all times. 

Follow these guidelines to keep yourself and others healthy: 

• Wash your hands for 20 seconds before going outside, and when you return home. 
• Avoid touching your face and carry hand sanitizer with you, if you have it available. 
• Try not to touch commonly touched objects like benches and handrails.
• Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. Water fountains are not available.
• Don’t take part in group sports.
• Don’t use playgrounds or outdoor exercise equipment.
• Don’t let your dog off-leash. The standard leash is six feet long. This helps maintain safe distance between pet owners. It’s also the law!