Coronavirus Restrictions Result in a Different Kind of Summer Kick-Off for Fire Island

The unofficial start of Fire Island’s summer season is Memorial Day weekend, but due to concerns and restrictions surrounding COVID-19, this year’s kick-off looked a lot different.

Fire Island officials are doing everything they can to keep Coronavirus out, which has proven successful as the barrier island continues to have zero cases. However, these fears and restrictions resulted in a slower than usual holiday weekend.

Seasonal residents have been asked to take specific guidelines to keep the island virus-free, such as quarantining for two weeks before arriving and two weeks after. The shops and restaurants remain closed, while the beaches are open. Officials have asked that anyone attending the beach wear a mask and abide by social distancing rules. Ocean Beach Mayor Jim Mallott told News12 anyone who doesn’t comply will face a $1,000 fine. The Fire Island Ferry also has a strict mask rule and failure to comply means they won’t be allowed to ride the ferry.

In addition to fears of Coronavirus reaching Fire Island, Mallot also said he’s concerned about Fire Island businesses surviving during this unprecedented time. “I’m afraid there are going to be boarded up business if we don’t salvage the summer here with July and August,” he said.

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