As the restrictions lift and more people are enjoying traveling for summer fun, there are some things that the experts recommend to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19.  The Maple Springs Lake Side Inn has implemented a number of measures to comply with state and federal guidelines to ensure cleanliness and limit social interaction while you’re on-grounds.  Even so, there are other things that you can do make your Chautauqua Lake vacation restful, relaxing and safe.

Experts agree that the chances of contracting the coronavirus when exposed to a person who has it depend on a number of things.

“We can think of transmission risk with a simple phrase:  time, space, people, place,” said Dr William Miller, an epidemiologist at Ohio State University.

“Always choose outdoors over indoor, always choose masking over not masking and always choose more space for fewer people over a smaller space,” echoed Dr. Emily Landon at the University of Chicago Medicine.

Some travel tips to limit risk and enhance your stay follow, but there are a few considerations to always keep in mind.

• Do Not Travel if you are not well. If you are running a fever or feel sick, stay home.
• If you are in a high-risk category – if you are over 65 years of age or have underlying health conditions – consider whether or not you should travel right now.
• Wash Your Hands – frequently, with soap and warm water.
• Don’t touch your face.
• Wear a mask if you are in a situation where you cannot maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others. This is to protect them as well as you.

Driving Tips

There are several things to consider and plan for if you will be driving to your Chautauqua Lake vacation destination. Plan your route to make sure you are allowed to travel, that you can stay in motels, that you can obtain food, drinks and other necessities, and that you are aware of any travel advisories.

Pack things you will need to sanitize yourself and surfaces if you need to stop for gas or food.  Try not to touch fixtures in public bathrooms after you’ve washed your hands and consider paying for things with a card (that you can sanitize after use) rather than cash.

Even in places where restaurants are open, you may experience a wait if service is limited.

If you need overnight accommodations on your trip, make reservations in advance and check to see that sanitization and social distancing guidelines are followed.

Flying Tips

It can be difficult or impossible to maintain social distance when flying.  Some airlines, but not all, are reducing the number of passengers on flights.

Do your research before you go.  Find out if the airline you travel requires masks of all passengers and ask if other safety precautions are in place or are required.  Some areas are requiring travelers to self-quarantine, especially if they have traveled overseas.

Studies have shown that air flow on planes is actually pretty good.  Try to move to a different seat if someone near you seems sick.  You can use the adjustable air control to further circulate air if people around you are coughing or sneezing.

It is a good idea to wipe down your seat area and tray table with a sanitizing wipe.  Bring wipes, hand sanitizer, masks and disposable gloves with you if you can. Try not to touch other people.  Wash your hands often, and don’t touch your face.

While You’re Here

Follow guidelines for social distancing and reducing your exposure to large groups of people while you are out of your room or off the grounds.

Many local restaurants have meals available for pick-up, and some for delivery.  Activities outside, including low density boat rides are low risk.  Avoid sharing food, drinks and utensils.  As much as possible, stay with the people in your “bubble;” those you live with, friends who you know have carefully isolated.  Wear a mask when you cannot social distance. Go fishing, take a hike or a bike ride. Paddle a kayak in the lake or read a book.

Enjoy your Chautauqua Lake vacation safely, and come back next year.