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LOS ANGELES - In an effort to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Los Angeles County will immediately close all beaches to the public, Supervisor Janice Hahn said Friday.
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“The crowds we saw at our beaches last weekend were unacceptable,” said Hahn. “In order to save lives, beaches in LA County will be temporarily closed. I understand that this is a huge sacrifice for everyone who enjoys going to our beaches. But we cannot risk another sunny weekend with crowds at the beach spreading this virus. This closure is temporary and we can always reopen these beaches when it is safe to do so.”
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Why social distancing can save lives amid COVID-19 pandemic
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The public health order signed Friday by LA County Public Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis is effective immediately and applies to all LA County beaches, beach bathrooms, piers, promenades, and beach bike paths.
In addition, it incorporates previously announced closures of public trails.
LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 25 - Hermosa Beach is all but empty days after all beaches in parks were closed due to the Coronavirus outbreak. (Photo by Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
"It is crucial that we limit access to non-essential places that crowds have been gathering," said Los Angeles County Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer. "I ask that you help us by not going to our beaches and not going on our hiking trails, at least for the next few weeks."
The order is in place until at least April 19.
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