Hot Topics     Home and Family    

PLAY SMART * PLAY SAFE * PLAY LOCAL



DEC suggests that kids who are outdoors and active tend to be happier and healthier

kids, family, play, local, smart, safe

Summer’s here and it’s time to get outside, safely and responsibly. During the COVID-19 public health crisis, take the #PlaySmartPlaySafePlayLocal pledge.



PLAY SMART * PLAY SAFE — Practice social distancing, wash your hands, wear a mask to protect yourself and others. If it’s crowded, find somewhere else to go.

PLAY LOCAL — Stay close to home and #RecreateLocal in your region — amenities like restrooms and restaurants may not be open.

PLAY SMART — plan ahead. Make a list of alternate destinations and places to visit.

PLAY SAFE — stay home if you’re sick or if you’re part of a vulnerable population.

Read More: Recreation destinations with access for people with disabilities

Check DEC’swebsite to see the current status of DEC campgrounds

Get your day pack ready with the 10Essentials for a safe and enjoyable experience. Plan a route that is based off how much time you have, your fitness level and experience, and the weather. Here are some great hikes for the summer. Many trails are also accessible to people with disabilities. In case you missed it, check out our YouTubeplaylist, which covers how to plan and prepare for your next hike. Check out some of the firetowers in New York State.

Read More: Visit a 2,000-acre treasure for walking, hiking, birdwatching and just for enjoying life




Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Simple tips for mindful eating

    How to incorporate foods your family loves

    Mindful eating doesn’t have to be restrictive and you don’t have to give up your favorite foods. read more »
  • Safe entertaining tips in a COVID-19 world

    Precautions to protect your physical health and your guests

    After an extended period without social contact, it’s only natural to crave some interaction, and there’s evidence that doing so can be advantageous for your mental health. However, taking precautions to protect your physical health, along with your guests’, can make for a more enjoyable event. read more »
  • Keeping pets safe in the garden

    hazards that can impact the well-being of your furry friends

    If you have pets that enjoy spending time outdoors, it’s important to make sure your yard is a safe place for them to be. read more »
  • How to raise kind and caring children

    3 tips from experts

    At some point, many parents will likely find themselves encouraging their children to “be kind” or “be friendly.” read more »
  • Safety tips for a safe 4th of July

    Celebrate safely and use extreme caution with fireworks and family gatherings

    The New York State Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) reminds New Yorkers to keep safe while celebrating Independence Day. As we celebrate this annual tradition with festivities ranging from fireworks, picnics, parades, family gatherings and barbecues, let’s also remember basic safety tips that apply to everyone. read more »
  • Weeklong FAIR Film Festival 2022

    The Foundation Against Intolerance & Racism (FAIR) Hosts a Film Screening Plus Q&A

    The Foundation Against Intolerance & Racism (FAIR) will kick off the FAIR Film Festival 2022 with an in-person screening of the documentary film I Am A Victor plus a selection of short films on Sunday, June 12 at 1:00pm EDT at Caveat on the lower east side in Manhattan. read more »
  • Keep kids learning during summer

    3 Fun, Easy Ways

    With school out, summertime brings long, carefree days of play and fun. With a little thought and a few supplies, summer is a perfect opportunity to revitalize their innate love of learning that may be a bit squashed after a year of academic pressures, tests and schedules. read more »
  • Take steps to support literacy

    8 ways to inspire children to read

    Reading is a foundation for learning, yet a vast gap exists in access to books for low-income neighborhoods. read more »
  • Sweeten up summer with a frozen, fruity snack

    Try these easy to make ice pops

    Heading to the freezer for a fruity ice pop can transport you from your own backyard to a tropical island, and the experience can be even more rewarding when the tasty treat is homemade. read more »
  • Clean. Drain. Dry. Every Time!

    Help keep invasive species out of our waters

    One of the most effective ways we can all help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species is by following proper procedures for cleaning, draining, and drying watercraft and equipment every time you leave the water. read more »