Beaches busy as people keep cool with COVID-19 guidelines on hottest day so far this year

HULL, Mass. — Friday marked the hottest day so far this year, and with air-conditioned movie theaters and indoor restaurant dining still closed, people flocked to the water to cool off.

“We looked at the temperature and saw it was going to be a perfect day, so we came out to hang out by the beach,” said Dylan Anastasio, of Holbrook. “It’s a real shame that we’ve been stuck in the house for a really long time, and it’s a good time to just come outside and have some fun.”

Boston EMS sees an increase in call volume on days with high temperatures, and a spokesperson told Boston 25 News they are bringing in more staff members to support an anticipated uptick in calls for heat-related illnesses this weekend.

“The department has staffed additional units to support added call volume and the increased complexity associated with patient care in the heat and added safety precautions associated with COVID-19,” Boston EMS Director of Media Relations Caitlin McLaughlin said in a statement.

Beachgoers are reminded to set up their towels and chairs at least 12 feet away from others.

With the sand packed to capacity at Nantasket Beach Friday morning, Mary Wilkinson and her friends staked out a spot in the parking lot. “We get to be together apart,” said Wilkinson, of Hull. “Bottom line is we don’t have to worry about people we don’t know being near us.”

State guidelines require masks be worn at the beach when physical distancing isn’t possible.

“I’m going to keep six feet away from everybody that I can for as long as I can,” said Anastasio. “Try to have fun in the water but keep your distance still.”

Across the street at The Parrot restaurant, sails shaded customers on the upstairs patio.

After months of being cooped up inside, Mark Cohen, of Attleboro, didn’t mind the current outdoor-only dining guidelines.

“I’ve been stuck inside for a while, so now when I have the opportunity to go out, I want to be outside,” said Cohen. “It’s exciting not to have a mask on and breathe fresh air.”

The Parrot’s General Manager Brian Donovan said they’ve been abiding by all state guidelines to keep customers and staff members safe.

“We’ve got all our tables at six feet apart, we’re monitoring people walking in with their masks, we’re trying to do it as safe as possible,” Donovan said. “Every half hour we’re sanitizing doorknobs, railings. It’s a weird way to go to a restaurant especially a mask like this on a day like today, but everybody’s been cool.”

He said they’re expected big crowds for Father’s Day weekend.

“This is the big one,” Donovan said. “Summer is starting, and this is going to be our big week, a big weekend.”

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