Spokane County health officer allows playgrounds to reopen

Playgrounds and jungle gyms in public parks reopened Friday after Spokane County Public Health Officer Dr. Bob Lutz rescinded his order closing the play structures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Lutz had order playgrounds closed on March 20, the same day he declared a public health emergency.

On Friday, he asked community members to continue to observe Phase 2 guidelines when kids use playgrounds, including maintaining physical distance and limiting the number of kids together.

Phase 2 allows groups of up to five people to gather together. Lutz encouraged parents to bring hand sanitizer, noting that some park restrooms will not be open for washing hands.

“If you go to a play structure and see 20 kids, maybe go back later; it’s not worth it,” Lutz said.

He encouraged good hand hygiene once kids finish using the equipment as well.