The coronavirus (COVID-19) has many of us on edge when it comes to doing basic tasks like going to grocery shop or ordering take-out. It has become increasingly competitive at grocery stores each week to obtain essentials before inventory runs out. On top of that, we now must worry about contracting COVID-19 while out in public. It can be a struggle to safely social distance while conducting what are essentially basic tasks.
Anytime you go out in public, you run the risk of contracting the virus. It is recommended to bring Clorox wipes and hand sanitizer with you when going to the Grocery store. Make sure any surface you touch, such as your shopping cart, has been properly sanitized. Many people feel that gloves will adequately protect them. However, gloves will only work so long as you do not touch anything that has the virus on it and then touch your face.
It is estimated that the coronavirus can live for a day on cardboard and up to three days on many metal and plastic surfaces, which means the groceries coming into your house could be contaminated. Disinfect your groceries. Anything that needs to be brought inside should be immediately disinfected, including items that go in the freezer. Studies have shown that the virus does not die from being contained in a freezer.
If you do have to venture out in public to shop, make sure you are staying a safe distance away from everyone in the store, which is a recommended six feet. Many grocery shop offer curbside pick-up and delivery services, and people are encouraged to take advantage of these services to avoid contact with others, especially individuals who have health issues that would otherwise make them high risk. Do not go shopping if you have been exposed to the virus or are exhibiting any symptoms. If you are over the age of 60, it is recommended that you self-isolate. Have someone shop for you or use delivery services for your food and groceries.
Even if you do get take-out or food delivery, make sure you wash your hands before eating and avoid touching your face. Many experts advise you throw away the wrappers and packaging before eating your food, as well, and microwaving your food prior to consumption can also assist in killing any surface germs. While the Food and Drug Administration insists there is no hard evidence to support the transmission of COVID-19 through food or packaging, taking these extra precautions cannot hurt.
If you are receiving your food via delivery, certain precautions can help prevent the spread of the virus. It is best to avoid any direct contact with the person delivering your food. Many services have opted for what is known as a “contactless” delivery, allowing the person to leave the food on your doorstep, porch or lobby. By paying online, you are also limiting the contact between you and the other individual. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after obtaining the bag and discarding the packaging safely. Make sure you place the delivery bag in your sink and not on your counter space or other areas in your home, as the sink is often the easiest place to sanitize and contain the germs. Make sure you plate your food before consumption and do not eat directly from the take-out container.
When picking food up from curbside delivery or a takeout window, it can be difficult to completely avoid human contact. However, make sure you are keeping as much distance between you and the other person. If you are in a vehicle, you will not be able to wash your hands immediately so gloves can be helpful. However, make sure you do not touch your face after retrieving anything with your gloved hand from the takeout window. Try to use contactless payment forms if possible, and always keep hand sanitizer nearby until you can reach a sink to thoroughly wash your hands.
While these tips may not eliminate all risk of the virus spreading, they can assist in lowering the risk. The safety and well-being of our clients and team has and continues to be Aronfeld Trial Lawyers top priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our offices remain fully operational and our team stands ready to represent the needs of our clients through these difficult times. As a firm, we will continue to adapt to these changes and continue the pursuit of justice for our clients. Please adhere to the CDC’s Health Warnings. If you need us, we are available 24/7 via phone at (305) 441-0440, live chat on aronfeld.com, Skype or FaceTime.
