As the coronavirus spreads across the U.S., people are staying home and avoiding non-essential activities in the name of social distancing and flattening the curve. To help, many retailers and restaurants have rolled out home delivery. But for some, home delivery isn’t an option and at some point, you may need to go to the grocery store to stock up on food and supplies. What can you do to help protect yourself?
Shop During Less Crowded Times of Day.
If possible, avoid going to the grocery store during busy times of the day and don’t go daily. Don’t know when your grocery store is busy? Try typing its name and location into Google — a graph may appear showing the store’s busiest times. Remember—if you see someone you know, nod or wave from afar and avoid hugs and handshakes.
Take Advantage of “Senior Hours.”
In an effort to keep crowds away, some stores set aside time called “senior hours” for older shoppers, who are at higher risk of severe symptoms related to COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have confirmed that those 65 and older as a higher risk for severe illness. So, contact your local grocery store to see if it is offering special shopping periods for seniors.
Look, Don’t Touch.
Don’t pick up an item you aren’t sure you’re going to buy. Instead, do your best to read the label without touching. When you pick up an item, be sure not to touch your face, eyes, and nose afterward, even if you are wearing gloves. And of course, be sure to wipe down your cart or basket with sanitizing wipes before and after shopping.
Don’t Use Cash.
You should use your debit or credit card at grocery stores to avoid exchanging cash with the cashier, according to Consumer Reports. Virtual payment options, such as ApplePay, are even better, so you don’t have to pull out your wallet. If you have to sign a receipt, be sure to use your own pen and disinfect your hands afterward.
Clean Your Goods After Purchase.
When you get home from the grocery store, you’ll need to disinfect your purchases. Use dish soap to wash plastic, glass and metal containers, and wash produce with soap and water to help eliminate any live virus that might be on the surface, the outlet reported. Be sure to wash your hands after opening any containers. After you’ve put your groceries away, wash your counters and any other surfaces.
It’s always fun to learn something new! At The Enclave at Woodbridge Apartments in Sugar Land, Texas, we love to provide you with fun, thought-provoking facts that will make you reflect on different aspects of life.