FL state parks open events canceled

[agesilaus]

The safety and welfare of our employees and the public we serve are top priority to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). DEP continues to take proactive measures and preventative actions to protect visitors, staff and volunteers as COVID-19 continues to be monitored.

Currently, all Florida State Parks remain open to the public. However, out of an abundance of caution, DEP has made the decision to cancel all events and activities effective immediately.

This decision is in line with guidance from the CDC for the public to avoid the gathering of large groups. The department will provide updates when events and activities will resume.

For the protection of our staff and our day-use visitors, all state parks have been provided with signage and guidance on preventative actions to reduce transmission of respiratory illness. All staff are fully informed and utilizing the protocol urged by the CDC and Florida Department of Health. Surfaces and areas that are frequently touched are consistently disinfected throughout the day, and all facilities are regularly and thoroughly cleaned to protect visitor safety.

The schools here in Alachua County are now closed a week before spring break for students. Staff will be "deep cleaning" the school buildings.

This is beyond idiotic right now. There has been ONE reported case in the county.

[wnjj]

I think the point of limiting the gatherings is to prevent an outbreak, not respond to it. Someone at a large gathering is more and more likely each day to have it and that means someone else likely will afterwards.

One case now. You’ll have plenty soon enough. Florida probably has a disproportionate share of elderly as well.