All Wareham beaches are closed until further notice, announced Town Administrator Derek Sullivan on Sunday. 

The town’s decision follows Governor Charlie Baker’s closure of all state beaches on April 2 and the closure of beaches in many surrounding towns, which could drive additional traffic to Wareham beaches.

“Closing Wareham’s public beaches is a difficult decision but our top priority is to maintain public health which means maintaining social distancing, limiting exposure to others and closing public gathering areas,” said Sullivan.

Playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, and other recreation areas were closed last week. Currently, town parks and walking trails are open, although visitors to those areas are urged to use common sense when visiting those locations, avoid the areas if they seem crowded, and stay six feet from visitors at all times.

“Stopping the spread of COVID-19 is the only way to get us back to our normal lives,” Sullivan reminded residents. 

All residents should stay home as much as possible, practice social distancing, and frequently wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

There are now 13 cases of coronavirus in Wareham, and there are almost certainly many more who have not yet been tested or are asymptomatic. Even those who feel and look healthy can spread the virus.

“Please think twice before leaving your home.  Physical distancing is absolutely paramount in stopping the spread of COVID-19.  The choices you make will either help save lives or put them at risk,” Sullivan said.