SC governor closes public beach access, state boat ramps to combat coronavirus
S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster ordered the state’s beaches and waterways closed to the public, amid concerns crowds enjoying the warm weather could further spread the coronavirus.
“As a result of behavior observed this past weekend by the Department of Natural Resources and SLED, it has become necessary to close public access to our state’s beaches, and close boat ramps and landings on our state’s lakes, rivers and waterways,” McMaster said on Twitter.
“This is unfortunate for those who chose to responsibly follow the instructions of our public health officials, but a necessary action to prevent the spread of the COVID 19 virus,” McMaster said.
The governor’s order said crowds have continued to gather on public beaches and waterways despite warnings from health officials that social distancing is necessary to halt the spread of the disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend keeping a 6-foot distance from others, and another order from the governor currently bars gatherings of more than three people.
Public access points and parking lots adjacent to the state’s beaches will now be closed, the order reads, as will “any and all public piers, docks, wharfs, boat ramps,and boat landings.”
The beaching of boats on sandbars, islands, riverbanks or lakesides is also prohibited under the order for the duration of the state of emergency. Private vessels can stop to fish, but rafting is also forbidden under the order.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREWhat you should know about the coronavirus
The coronavirus is spreading in the United States. Officials are urging people to take precautions to avoid getting sick, and to avoid spreading the disease if they do contract it.
Click the drop-down icon on this card for more on the virus and what you should do to keep yourself and those around you healthy.
What is coronavirus?
Coronavirus is an infection of the respiratory system similar to the flu. Coronaviruses are a class of viruses that regularly cause illnesses among adults and children, but this outbreak has spawned a new disease called COVID-19, a particularly harsh respiratory condition that can lead to death.
Health officials believe COVID-19 spread from animals to humans somewhere in China. It spreads among humans by physical person-to-person contact, including via coughs. That’s why health officials urge sick individuals to avoid contact with other people.
For more information, visit the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms are similar to the flu and include fever, coughing and shortness of breath.
How can I stop the spread of the coronavirus?
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
If you develop symptoms similar to the coronavirus, you should seek medical attention. Stay home from work or school and avoid contact with others. It can take up to 14 days after coming into contact with the virus to develop symptoms.
COVID-19 is a new condition and there’s much about the disease we still don’t understand. For now, taking precautions is the best way to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
This story was originally published March 30, 2020 at 6:44 PM.
.jpg)