Note: An earlier version of this story indicated that theme parks may require visitors not to call the attractions. The state of California has not published any such protocol.
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) – When Southern California theme parks, such as Disneyland, Universal Studios and Magic Mountain, reopen in April, they’ll likely have to take steps to make sure the screaming of attractions doesn’t lead to the spread of COVID-19.
The California Parks and Amusement Association (CAPA), a trade group representing theme parks across the state, is supporting a plan that would reduce the effects that screams and screams at attractions, such as roller coasters, could have in the spread of the virus.
FILE: Knott’s Berry Farm visitors ride the HangTime Roller Coaster in Buena Park on May 11, 2018. (Jeff Gritchen / Orange County Register / Getty Images)
California reopening guidelines call for companies to limit activities that can spread the virus, such as singing and shouting.
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“The use of facial covers and / or modifications to seat load patterns on amusement park rides should be used to mitigate the effects of screaming,” CAPA wrote in its responsible reopening plan. “Also, on journeys, guests often face off in one direction.”
Both Los Angeles and Orange counties moved this week to the red level of the state’s reopening plan, which allows theme parks to reopen beginning April 1st. They have been closed since March 2020. According to the guidelines, they will be allowed to reopen at 15% capacity, but only with visitors to the state.
Visitors are limited to groups of no more than 10 people and no more than three households. Covered food is not allowed and tickets must be purchased online in advance.