Iowa restaurants can operate at full capacity since Governor Kim Reynolds lifted the 50% restriction last month, but residents might still wonder if it’s safe to dine out.

Guthrie County Public Health Director Jotham Arber says those who are younger and don’t have underlying health conditions could try dining out, “I would recommend though if you know you’re dining in a small area and you’re not able to have that social distance, wearing a face mask when you’re not eating is going to go a long way to helping you mitigate that. If you have to wait in a long line with a lot of people, that face mask can do a lot of good to helping you be able to go into those restaurants, get your food and mitigate your risk.”

Arber adds that he believes Iowa restaurants for the most part have been very cautious during the pandemic, and they are trying their best to keep their facilities safe for patrons. According to the state proclamation in effect through July 25th, restaurants and bars still must ensure at least six feet of distance between each group or individual and must implement other public health measures to reduce the risk of transmission.