Coronavirus and the New Playground Rules
At Condominium Associates, we believe in the power of community to make the best possible living situation a reality. We know that 2020 has been a very abnormal year and one that we may never forget. However, HOA members must uphold the duties and responsibilities put forth to maintain peace in our communities. This mind-set must also apply to those families that have children and how important it is to keep everyone safe.
Coronavirus and the New Playground Rules
Playgrounds may look a little different this summer. Since many families are still practicing social distancing due to COVID-19, playgrounds are not as busy as they once were. Many homeowner associations continue to limit the number of people allowed in common areas at one time so that everyone can stay at least six feet apart. If your community is still following a strict protocol, please be patient and abide by the mandates of the association leaders.
Based on information developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Condominium Associates recommends that board members encourage the community association to heed the following advice:
Limit playground use to residents and try to avoid large groups.
Encourage parents to clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces before and after playtime.
Encourage all parents and children to wash their hands often.
Children and parents must cover their coughs and sneezes and avoid touching their faces.
Parents should bring and use disinfectant supplies. Once children finish playing, these supplies are handy for a quick clean-up. Your community can encourage the use of face masks for those over the age of two.
Consider preventing access to certain parts of the park that are difficult to clean and disinfect. For example, if the community struggles with maintaining restrooms, they should surely close until the proper authorities can handle the situation. If restrooms open, be sure they have functional toilets, clean and disinfected surfaces, and hand-washing supplies.
Other Necessary Precautions on the Playground
With a pandemic going around, we can sometimes forget that other playground safety rules should be followed to minimize issues in your association. According to HOA Resources, The National Program for Playground Safety recommends that parents and caregivers check the playground equipment before their child uses it. Check to be sure:
All equipment pieces are in good working order.
Keep an eye out for rust, splinters, or missing parts.
If ropes are required, they must be secure on both ends of playground equipment (e.g. tire swing). .
Parents must be aware that strings on clothing or ropes used for play can cause accidental strangulation if caught on the equipment.
It is critical to check for hot surfaces on playground equipment before allowing children to play on it. Especially in Florida, surfaces can become hot enough to burn the skin if the shade does not cover the playground equipment.
Got Questions? Contact Us
We know that every HOA and COA community is different. That’s why we hire the upmost professionals to manage your properties. Please contact us with any questions concerning amenities in your community.
