Lamorinda families back in the swing at outdoor playgrounds
By Pippa Fisher
Laura Cuneo's 2-year-old son takes a turn on Moraga Commons playground equipment Oct. 6, after its reopening with restrictions. Photo Pippa Fisher
Playgrounds around Lamorinda are once again open, with restrictions, and many families are happy to have somewhere for their children to run around and play.
With some progress made locally in the fight against COVID-19, the county moved up in the four-tiered, color-coded reopening guidelines, into the red zone Sept. 29, and with that came the reopening of outdoor playgrounds.
A couple of local residents, Kat Young and Laura Cuneo, chatted as their children played Oct. 6 in the Moraga Commons. Both said they felt comfortable that the playground was safe. Young said it was their first day back visiting the playground since before the pandemic.
"At this point it is risk versus reward," said Cuneo. She added that her 2-year-old hardly knew what to do on the play equipment. "He was only just old enough to become interested in playgrounds right before they all shut," she observed as the little guy stood somewhat hesitantly on the steps.
Each playground must post guidelines. Face masks are required for everyone 2 years of age or older, and children and adults from different households must maintain a physical distance of six feet or more. Hands should be washed and sanitized before and after using the playground, and no eating or drinking is permitted to ensure face masks are worn at all times.
The reopening only applies to fully outdoor, publicly accessible facilities.
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