County Chief Paul S. Skill, president of the Cape May County Chiefs of Police Association, issued a statement on behalf of the association urging people to use precautions while enjoying the holiday weekend.
“The July Fourth holiday is always an exciting time, especially here in Cape May County. With the unfortunate COVID-19 limitations placed on businesses and events because of the danger of getting infected or infecting our fellow residents and visitors, the crowds of people may have fewer places to go to, or the locations may have much more limited capacities,” Skill noted in a press release.
He pointed out, “Governor (Phil) Murphy recently rescinded the opening of indoor restaurants primarily out of concern for recent COVID outbreaks in other states and because of scenes this past weekend of overcrowded outdoor bars and outdoor restaurants in New Jersey.”
Skill added that the governor made his decision to rescind indoor dining because it has been determined that most of the spike in infections in other states came as a result of the opening of indoor restaurants and bars.
“No one wants to see the situation in New Jersey get to the point where the governor orders the closure of outdoor dining or possibly other activities,” he said.
"As president of the Cape May County Chiefs of Police Association, I can assure you that the law enforcement departments in Cape May County can more than handle the challenge of the influx of summer visitors we have every year,” Skill said.
He continued, “With more people come more problems; whether they are auto accidents, disorderly people or theft. With the additional challenge of enforcing COVID restrictions and the health risks posed to our officers when having to engage with the public, the Association is asking all of our restaurant, bar and business owners and our residents and visitors to do their part in making sure everyone complies with the COVID-19 restrictions.”
He urged the public to follow all social distancing protocols and wear masks whenever possible “so all that you bring home from your holiday celebration are fond memories."
“The Chiefs of Police Association wishes all of you a safe, healthy and fun Fourth of July,” he said.
