After what seems like an eternity under lock-down, the light at the end of the tunnel is starting to emerge. In some states, the wheels of commerce are beginning to grind into action once more. Stores are starting to reopen and the hospitality sector will potentially follow closely behind, with Floridians starting to dine in restaurants once more. Yet, despite state governments’ zeal to get their economies rolling again, many of us may understandably have misgivings about returning to the high-street.
Image by The Virtual Denise
Indeed, there are many who are extremely unsure about venturing outdoors at all. If your family is thinking of going back to stores or restaurants (or even getting back to their favorite parks) it’s a good idea to keep the following in mind to stay safe…
Wear a mask… they do help!
There’s been much debate as to whether or not a mask offers adequate protection against the COVID-19 virus. However, while it depends on what fabric the mask is made of, any mask can help in a variety of ways. At the very least, they can prevent people who are infected but asymptomatic from spreading the disease. And to be on the safe side, it’s always best to assume that you are infected and asymptomatic.
Heading into a store? Go one at a time
While you may be bursting with excitement at the thought of going shopping again, it’s best to head into stores one at a time. This will help stores to better enforce social distancing, protecting yourselves and others.
Stranger = danger
We’re all yearning for human contact. To feel close to people and feel like we’re part of a society once more. However, if you’re close to someone who happens to cough or sneeze, it could ruin your trip out and cause you to spend the next 2 weeks in a state of paranoia. Until further notice, every stranger is potentially a danger. So be sure to keep yourself (and especially your kids) 6 feet away from anyone who doesn’t live under your roof at all times.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t smile or wave!
Keep away from unfamiliar animals
While there’s little evidence to suggest that household pets can carry the coronavirus, there has been one incident in China of a dog transmitting the virus. Just to be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to give unfamiliar animals a wide berth. Especially if they seem excited or agitated. Coronavirus aside, dogs have killed more than 400 people between 2005 and 2017. Unfamiliar animals can be unpredictable. So it just makes sense to keep ourselves and our kids well clear of them.
Don’t touch handrails
Finally, the virus usually gets into our bodies by travelling from hands to faces. So be very wary of what you touch. Avoid touching door handles with bare hands where possible and don’t touch any hand rails at all. If you’re less than steady on your feet, take a walking cane out with you.
Everything we know about the virus suggests that it doesn’t do well outside, especially under prolonged exposure to sunlight. Still, why take unnecessary risks. The simple precautions above can protect your family and make going outside worry free!
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