Note: An earlier version of this story indicated that it should be possible to ask theme park visitors not to shout at rides. The state of California has not disclosed such protocols.
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) If Southern California theme parks like Disneyland, Universal Studios and Magic Mountain reopen in April, they will likely have to take steps to ensure that screaming on rides does not lead to the spread of COVID-19.
The California Adventures and Parks Association (CAPA), a trade group representing theme parks across the country, supports a plan that will reduce the consequences of screaming and screaming during rides, such as roller coasters, to spread the virus.
FILE – Visitors to Knott’s Berry Farm ride on the HangTime roller coaster in Buena Park on May 11, 2018. (Jeff Gritchen / Orange County Register / Getty Images)
According to California reopening guidelines, businesses should limit activities that can spread the virus, such as singing and screaming.
RELATED: Disneyland Reopens on April 30
“The use of faces and / or adjustments of the loading patterns for seats is necessary during rides in the amusement park to reduce the effects of screaming,” CAPA writes in its responsible reopening plan. “In addition, guests usually look in one direction during rides.”
Both Los Angeles and Orange counties entered the red level of the state’s reopening blueprint this week, providing the opportunity for April 1 theme parks to open. They have been closed since March 2020. Under the guidelines, they will be allowed to reopen 15% capacity, but only with visitors in the state.
Visitors are limited to groups of no more than 10 and no more than three households. No indoor meals are allowed and tickets must be purchased online in advance.