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Golfers hit local courses as outside businesses reopen in Pa.

PITTSBURGH — Golf courses, marinas, guided fishing trips, and privately-owned campgrounds have reopened across Pennsylvania Friday.

Gov. Wolf said businesses would be required to follow updated life-sustaining business guidance and rules. The guidelines will help keep people safe while they are outside.

Golfers started showing up around 6 a.m. at North Park.

Things aren’t the same as they were before and people are being asked to enter the premise with masks.

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A large sign spells out the COVID-19 guidelines. One person is allowed in each golf course, golfers are asked to walk the course if they can.

Golfers are aware of the new rules.

We spoke with one of the first guys to show up. He brought a mask and was aware of the new rules.

"I think they're very smart moves. We all just need to cooperate and learn more as we go along. I'm sure, you know, they’re trying to protect their workers here, and also the people that come out here and golf, so we have to be cautious," golfer Gary Zangaro said.

Golfers we spoke with today are grateful these restrictions have been lifted.

Families planning guided fishing trips, heading to marinas and privately-owned campgrounds are encouraged to follow these guidelines too:

  • Stay close to home: Pennsylvanians are encouraged to enjoy permitted outdoor recreational activities within their community and avoid crowding popular destinations.
  • Practice social distancing: Maintain the recommended minimum 6 feet apart from fellow recreationists. Pennsylvanians are also encouraged to wear a mask or protective garment that covers the nose and mouth any time they go outside. If a parking lot at a park is full or there are too many people on the same trail, find an alternate place to recreate. Cross the street to avoid running directly past another runner or wait longer at a golf hole for a fellow golfer to move forward.
  • Minimize risk to others: Individuals should only go out if they feel healthy and have not been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wash hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid surfaces that are touched often, such as doorknobs and handrails.
  • Have a plan: Create a safety plan before heading outdoors. Explain to children the need to keep their distance from others, even if they happen to see a friend while outside. Discuss with partners, social distancing while on the golf course. Think through how to avoid other runners when waiting to safely cross a street at the same time.

State park campgrounds will stay closed through May 14.