PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Pinellas County leaders voted on Thursday to make some big changes in the county when it comes to pools, beaches and playgrounds.
Starting on Monday, playgrounds can reopen as long as social distancing rules are adhered to.
Pinellas County is the first county to reopen their playgrounds. Leaders say it will be a "play at your own risk" situation and there will be signs reminding visitors about social distancing rules. County leaders are also urging parents to bring hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes to the playgrounds.
Also beginning on Monday, pools can operate at full capacity and, beginning immediately, deputies will no longer be patrolling beaches by the hundreds.
Beaches in Pinellas County reopened on May 4.
There have been 300 law enforcement officers out patrolling the 35 miles of Pinellas County coastline to ensure visitors follow social distancing guidelines.
With this change, authorities say say they'll still respond if they receive complaints about distancing. More than 1,000 signs reminding beach visitors of social distancing rules will also remain up on the sand.
Pools in the county also reopened on May 4 and have been operating at 50% capacity. While all pools in the county can open to full access starting on Monday, leaders say pools at hotels can do so immediately.
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