KNOX COUNTY, Tenn. — Leaders in Knox County issued a "Safer At Home" order on Monday urging people to stay home and only leave if it is for essential travel.
You can still get outside for some fresh air, but it's recommended you practice social distancing.
Many took advantage of getting sun this past weekend but in some areas that caused problems staying six feet apart.
Several Knox County greenways were crowded along with trails in the Great Smoky Mountains. The amount of people taking advantage of getting out made social distancing almost impossible.
"I think getting outside for everyone right now makes them feel a little bit normal," said Carol Evans with the non-profit Legacy Parks.
In Knox County alone, there are 125 parks, more than 100 miles of greenways and 44 trails. Needless to say, there are a lot of ways to get outdoors that allow you to stay safe at the same time.
"I think we're just really fortunate as a community that we have that ability to get outside," said Evans.
She suggests finding less crowded options that allow you to stay six feet from others.
"Look for a lot of open space. You can make your open path. Think about soccer fields, athletic fields."
She said most greenway paths are 10 feet wide, walking along the edges will help with practicing social distancing.
If you're not sure where to start OutdoorKnoxville.com lists every park, trail and greenway in the county. You can even find a regional map of east tennessee parks and trails.
"I think right now more than ever this is helping us really appreciate what we have here," said Evans.
While we've seen some gloomy days this past week, spring has officially started which means sunnier, warmer days are ahead.
"I think we'll all feel happier, healthier and safer if we take advantage of that right now."
The average dog leash is six feet. You can use it as a tool to make sure you're staying safe.