It’s summertime in New Jersey but a summer unlike any other we’ve ever faced. With coronavirus cases reaching new lows in our state, it’s time to resume activities that are good for our well-being and that bring us together. But we also need to continue common-sense precautions, so I’ve assembled a list of 10 ways to protect yourself and the people you love this summer:

1. Keep up with the guidelines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has developed recommendations for personal actions you can take to protect yourself as you venture out, based on the best science available — things such as social distancing, frequent and thorough handwashing, wearing a face mask and more. You can find them on the CDC website.
2. Social distancing doesn’t mean social isolation, but take a new approach to entertaining this summer. Outdoor gatherings are better because droplets we spread when talking or laughing — which is a key way coronavirus spreads — dissipate better in fresh air and open spaces. Plan your menu with social distancing in mind. Think individual servings rather than large platters or trays that people tend to congregate around. Limit the use of shared items such as serving spoons, salt and pepper shakers or condiment jars. Also supply ample hand sanitizer for you and your guests.
3. At the beach: Follow social distancing both on the sand and in the water, but be especially mindful of the bottlenecks where people gather, such as the beach tag sales kiosk and the boardwalk steps. Definitely wear your face mask in those locations.
4. At the pool: There is no scientific evidence that coronavirus can be spread in pool water, but there’s also no science-based evidence that chlorine kills the virus. That means you have to take the same precautions about leaving at least 6 feet of space between you and others. If possible, avoid common areas such as changing rooms.
5. If you’re planning a getaway this summer, car travel provides more control over disinfecting practices and avoiding close contact with others. Bring snacks and drinks to minimize stops at busy service plazas. Also bring disinfectant wipes and use them in hotel rooms or vacation rentals to wipe down things such as doorknobs, faucet handles, light switches, the remote control and other frequently touched items.
6. If you’re dining out, seek open air options. But if you want to eat indoors, make sure the table arrangements provide plenty of space and that you feel comfortable with the amount of distance between other diners. Paper and plastic disposable items are other precautions to watch for.
7. Youth sports are a great outlet for pent-up energy, but make sure your kids’ programs are promoting social distancing, including on the sidelines and in the dugout; disinfecting shared equipment; and focusing on drills and skills rather than close contact competition.
8. Day camps will reopen in July. Begin now to reinforce all those good habits with your kids – handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue, avoiding touching your face and respecting other campers’ spaces. And please: Keep children who are sick home from camp.
9. Because I’m a family practice nurse and a mom, I just have to say it: Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen.
10. And finally, make time for your own health. If you’re eager to get back out there, go for it but follow the precautions. And that goes for doctors’ appointments or other health care services. If you put off needed care during the height of coronavirus, now’s the time to prioritize the health needs of yourself and your family. Make the appointments, schedule the screenings, take the tests and put your health first.

Sandy Cayo, RN, DNP, is a family nurse practitioner and vice president of clinical performance and transformation at the New Jersey Hospital Association.