Note: An earlier version of this story indicates that theme parks may be required to ask visitors not to shout during the tours. The state of California has not released any of these protocols.
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) – When Southern California theme parks such as Disneyland, Universal Studios and Magic Mountain reopen in early April, they will likely have to take steps to ensure that shouting at the attractions does not lead to the spread of COVID-19.
The California Attractions and Parks Association (CAPA), a commercial group that represents theme parks across the state, is supporting a plan that would suppress the effects that screaming and shouting on toys, such as roller coasters, could have on the spread of the virus .
ARCHIVE – 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’s reopening guidelines require companies to limit activities that can spread the virus, such as singing and shouting.
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“The use of facial coverage and / or changes in seat occupancy patterns will be necessary on amusement park rides to mitigate the effects of screaming,” wrote CAPA in its responsible reopening plan. “In addition, on tours, guests often turn in one direction.”
Los Angeles and Orange counties moved to the red layer of the state’s reopening plan this week, which allows theme parks to reopen from April 1. They have been closed since March 2020. According to the guidelines, they will be able to reopen at 15% of capacity, but only with visitors from the interior of the state.
Visitors are limited to groups of no more than 10 and no more than three families. Indoor meals are not allowed and tickets must be purchased online in advance.