Essential Precautions for Grocery Shopping During the COVID-19 Outbreak
The coronavirus pandemic has made grocery shopping an immensely important yet potentially risky activity. Here are the necessary precautions you should take to ensure your safety and help slow the spread of the virus.
Choosing the Best Time and Place to Shop
1. Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Typically, grocery stores are busiest on weekends and late afternoons to early evenings. If possible, try to visit during the lunch hour or late at night when fewer people are around. Due to the coronavirus, peak hours might vary based on the number of people who are out of work. If the store is unusually crowded, it may be best to wait and try again later. Some stores limit the number of people allowed in at one time, which can help avoid crowds.
2. Special Shopping Hours for Older Shoppers or High-Risk Individuals
Many stores have designated special hours for older shoppers or those at high risk. These hours are usually early in the morning. This not only allows for thorough cleaning but also ensures better availability of items. Taking advantage of these special hours can be particularly beneficial.
3. Don't Go Out if You Are Sick
If you or someone in your household is experiencing flu-like symptoms, avoid leaving the house. Stay home for 14 days to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Opt for delivery services such as those offered by Amazon, Stop Shop, or Walmart, especially if you're caring for someone ill.
4. Opt for Less-Crowded Stores
If you need to shop during peak hours, consider traveling to less busy stores, especially if you live in a densely populated area. Check if your local stores have implemented limits on the number of shoppers to help ensure social distancing.
Staying Safe in the Store
1. Hand Hygiene
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after shopping. Use hand sanitizer immediately upon returning home. This helps in reducing the risk of spreading germs.
2. Wear a Face Mask
Wear a cloth mask to help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets. Making your own mask from available materials can also be effective. This helps keep everyone safer by containing any potential released particles.
3. Wipe Down Your Cart
If you must use a shared cart, use disinfecting wipes to clean the handle and other surfaces. Ensure the sanitizer stays wet for the recommended time (3-5 minutes).
4. Maintain Social Distancing
Avoid getting too close to others—keep at least 6 feet (1.8 meters) away. Navigate aisles carefully, and if an aisle is too crowded, consider going to another to avoid close contact.
5. Limit Touching
Avoid touching surfaces and items if possible. When handling items like produce, examine them visually instead of pressing them with your hands. Additionally, wash produce thoroughly upon arrival home.
Alternative Shopping Options
1. Curbside Pickup
Many grocery stores, including Walmart and Target, offer curbside pickup through their mobile apps. When available, this allows you to order online and have a store employee load your groceries into your car. Be prepared for possibly limited availability due to high demand.
2. Grocery Delivery Services
Third-party delivery services like Shipt, Instacart, and Walmart Grocery Delivery can deliver groceries directly to your doorstep. Make sure to arrive after the delivery person and wait at least 6 feet away before carrying your groceries in.
3. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
Join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program for fresh produce. These programs deliver weekly boxes of seasonal produce from local farms, often with extra items like eggs or dairy.
4. Local Wholesalers
Explore local wholesalers or restaurant suppliers for cost-effective bulk items. Some restaurants are offering their surplus stock at reduced prices to help their businesses during the outbreak. Curbside pickup is often an option, making these a convenient alternative.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safer and more secure experience while grocery shopping during the current global health crisis.