Colorado Safer-At-Home Guidelines Modified, Extended To July 1

DENVER, CO — Gov. Jared Polis signed an executive order Monday that transitions from the safer-at-home guidelines to 'Safer at Home and in the Vast, Great Outdoors.' The new order will be in effect until July 1.

“Our state has some of the most beautiful natural open spaces in the world and we want Coloradans to enjoy our vast, great outdoors. While we are all still safer at home, we are also able to practice greater social distancing in our great outdoors than in confined indoor spaces,” Polis said in a statement.

Health officials are releasing draft guidance on houses of worship, outdoor recreation, personal recreation, and updates to the child care and personal services. Playgrounds and swimming pools can open at limited capacity under the new order, the governor said. The final versions of the draft guidance are expected to be released Thursday.

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“It may feel like we are getting back to normal, but the virus is still here, and it could surge back the moment we let our guard down. We are still far from normal," Polis said. "Coloradans have to remain diligent, and must continue staying home or in the great outdoors away from others as much as possible, wearing masks when we leave the house, and washing our hands."

Previously, high-risk Coloradans, those above 65 or with underlying health conditions, were required to stay home unless absolutely necessary. Under the modified order, they are encouraged to enjoy nature while following social distancing guidelines.

"Over these next few weeks, each and every one of us has a responsibility to protect ourselves and others, especially as we begin venturing out onto our trails and open space,” Polis said.

The governor also urged everyone who has coronavirus symptoms to get tested.

"Testing is free, easy, and quick at 47 state-supported, community testing sites across the state including at the Pepsi Center in Denver,” he said.

“Colorado has millions of acres of accessible federal land, municipal parks, State parks, State and county open space, and other accessible areas that allow for stronger Social Distancing in our great outdoors. Coloradans should Stay at Home or in the great outdoors away from others as much as possible and continue to limit social interactions, remain at least six feet from others not in their household, and wear non-medical facial coverings in public,” the executive order reads.