What does it mean to socialize safely?
Multiple studies have shown that the use of face coverings, combined with social distancing, substantially limits the spread of COVID-19. Additionally, hand-washing and cleaning surfaces can limit the spread of COVID-19.
Socializing safely means taking steps and choosing options that reduce the risk of COVID-19 for yourself and your friends or guests. The ideas below are just the tip of the iceberg! We encourage you to learn more about socializing with COVID-19 in mind. For more information about UTK’s COVID-19 response visit COVID-19 Information and Support.
Socializing Ideas
Socializing safely in the winter is more challenging because it can be cold and it gets dark fast. Here are a few options:
- Bundle up and meet up for a hike or walk
- Grab a hot beverage and go window shopping in Market Square
- Bring your mask and explore art galleries downtown
- Find out if your favorite restaurant or coffee spot has a heated patio and plan to have lunch or dinner outdoors
- Go camping. Friends who live together can drive together.
- If you have a private backyard and a fire pit, provide each person with the items to make s’mores
- Host a game of cornhole outdoors
- Let everyone stay warm in their homes and find a co-op or multiplayer video game you all can play together
- Consider setting up a pod – a small group of friends or family with similar mindsets and a commitment to restricting activities outside the pod
Remember, socializing indoors increases your risk of COVID-19. If you need to socialize indoors, keep it short, keep it small, and open a window or door if you can. Everyone should wear masks and practice social distancing.