Essential Errands During the Coronavirus Pandemic: 4 Safety Tips for When You Leave the House by Sophia L. Thomas, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PPCNP-BC, FNAP, FAANP

Are you worried about the safety of your loved ones or yourself when leaving the house during the coronavirus pandemic? Have you postponed essential errands due to fear of COVID-19? Though we are in the midst of a public health crisis, sometimes you just have to leave the safety of your home. Here are some general tips to help protect yourself from COVID-19 as you go on essential errands:

General Safety Measures

The first step to lessen the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19 is to comply with general safety precautions. This includes not leaving the house when feeling ill, standing 6 feet apart from others, wearing a face covering over your mouth and nose, using hand sanitizer, washing your hands frequently and utilizing online services that are offered to limit contact with others.

Safety Tips for Conducting Four Essential Errands

1. Grocery Shopping: Stay 6 feet apart from others, wear a face mask while in the store, use hand sanitizer before and after shopping, wipe down shopping carts before use and utilize curbside pick-up if possible. 
2. Food Takeout and Delivery: Order over the phone or online if available and minimize contact with employees while in the restaurant. When ordering delivery, ask for your food to be dropped off in a safe location outside your home to minimize contact with the driver.
3. Banking: During this crisis, banks are implementing practices to ensure customer protection. When at your bank, practice general safety precautions, such as social distancing, wearing a protective face mask and sanitizing before and after your visit. Ask your bank about virtual meetings as well, and utilize ATMs to minimize contact with others.
4. Pumping Gasoline: When getting gas, make sure to sanitize your hands, gas pump handles and any other surfaces with which you might come into contact.

The information on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information provided through this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider.

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