Information Regarding COVID-19

Important Information Regarding COVID-19

UPDATE 6/9/20

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidance today for the use of public parks and playgrounds. In a directive on their website, they stated, "staying physically active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy. In many areas, people can visit parks, trails, and open spaces as a way to relieve stress, get some fresh air, and stay active. While these facilities and areas can offer health benefits, it is important that you follow steps to protect yourself and others from COVID-19."

The CDC website shares specific guidance for the use of public playgrounds to help protect yourself and others during play. This includes the need for physical distancing and the use of soap and water or hand sanitizer. You can read the full statement here: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/visitors.html

Cleaning and Disinfecting Outdoor Play Equipment and Site Furnishings

Please refer to the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces guidelines to clean and disinfect your outdoor play equipment and site furnishings.

Always clean the surface with soap and low-pressure water (ie. using a garden hose, high pressure may damage paint and surfaces) prior to disinfection. Normal routine cleaning with soap and water removes germs and dirt from surfaces and lowers the risk of spreading COVID-19.

To disinfect most surfaces, the CDC recommends using diluted household bleach solutions, prepared by mixing:

• 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon of water or
• 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water

Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application, ensuring a contact time of at least 1 minute. Rinse your site furnishings and let them completely dry before allowing them to be used. Note: Bleach solutions may damage wood finishes, a disinfecting solution containing 60% to no more than 70% alcohol is recommended.

WARNINGS:

• Check to ensure all cleaning/disinfectant products are not past their expiration dates. Expired products will not disinfect properly.
• Check to ensure the product is compatible with the surface it is being applied to.
• Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser as toxic gases may occur.
• Wear recommended protective gear when applying a disinfectant.

Using the above CDC recommended solutions will not harm your equipment and your warranty will remain for its duration.

It is also important to maintain safe practices that reduce the potential for exposure including posting signs at public gathering spaces highlighting the current CDC guidelines, including:

• Avoid gathering in groups
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds at a time.
• Avoid touching your face.
• If you’re sick with any ailment, stay home. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• When in public, maintain physical distancing of at least six feet.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw it away. If you don’t have a tissue, use your elbow.
• Clean your hands with a CDC approved hand sanitizer after touching public equipment.

By implementing mindful procedures, we can help stem the spread of COVID-19 together.