Eventually, after spending enough time safe at home, you'll need to go out to get more food and other important supplies. Right now that could be a stressful thought as confirmed cases continue to rise, but there is a way to effectively get what you need and lower the risk of getting sick. Whether you need to get groceries or visit your nearest hardware store, here are some handy tips that'll get you in-and-out smoothly.
- Avoid going in a store at all. If possible, see if your store offers delivery or curbside pickup!
- Go early. Odds are that people are sleeping in if they have to stay at home. If you head over early in the morning, it's unlikely you'll have to deal with a lot of people there.
- Remember social distancing. If you're in a store, remember to stay at least six feet away from other shoppers if you can.
- Seek out stores that limit the people inside. Some stores will post the maximum amount of people that can be in the store at one time. Fewer people always encourages social distancing.
- Avoid buffets of prepared foods. You'll never who if someone coughed sneezed near those items.
- Think twice before wearing gloves. Gloves will prevent your hand from making direct contact with germs on surfaces, but be careful. They can also create a false sense of security, so you could actually end up getting too comfortable and end up touching your face. Considering washing hands or hand-sanitizing instead.
- Use wipes. Try wiping down containers you get from the grocery store.
- Order from local restaurants. Its a double-wammy It's a double-whammy because you'll get to support your local businesses that are taking a hit from the pandemic as well. Make sure to use no-contact delivery. Standard food safety practices and keeping sick employees home should decrease risk to you.
- Be cautious with boxes. Even though it's smart to order things online, the coronavirus can stick to cardboard and live on it for up to 24 hours.
Even though the roads may be empty, please make sure to drive safe and have a clean time shopping!