This Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial kickoff to the summer season.

But the coronavirus pandemic has the mayor of Rochester and the police chief teaming up to remind residents to remain vigilant.

With the forecast calling for sunshine and pleasant temperatures, people will be anxious to get outdoors.

“We’ve been looking forward to getting out and planting flowers,” said Diana Miskinis, of Irondequoit.

“This weekend, our mission in the Rochester Police Department will be to patrol Charlotte Beach and Durand Beach as people will frequent those locations throughout the city. We have high visibility patrols to assure that people feel safe,” said Rochester Police Chief La’Ron Singletary.

The guidelines for gatherings include no more than 10 people, wearing masks and practicing social distancing.

“We must remember that COVID-19 is still very much among us. The virus is still within our community and it’s still spreading. It will not take a vacation and it’s up to us to protect our circle,” Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren (D) said.

If people ignore the guidelines and the infection rates go up, the mayor says the region won’t advance to Phase Two.

“Yes, our region is performing well. That’s why we are in Phase One right now. But don’t let that performance create a false sense of confidence,” said Mayor Warren.

As police prepare to patrol these public areas, the police chief says it’s up to everyone to take responsibility.

“We know based on what we see out in the community, there are people who are still sometimes not taking this serious,” said Chief Singletary.

The mayor says the virus is alive and well in the community and we can’t take our eyes off the ball. She says as we plan our time outside, also take time to show respect for those who lost their lives fighting for our freedom.