A visit to the supermarket is sometimes unavoidable, here's how to minimise your risk.
- Stay home
Assess your need to actually go to the shops. How many items do you need? How urgent is it? Can it be delivered? If you are feeling unwell, do not go to the shops. - Leave the kids behind
Where possible, leave the kids or spouse at home. This will reduce store numbers as well as limit your family’s exposure - Write a list
Writing a grocery list will help you get in and out quickly. With store numbers currently limited, this can mean less wait for others as well as less risk for you. You’re also less likely to forget an item and require a return trip. - Schedule your visit
Try to visit the store at off-peak times to limit your contact with other people. Less busy times tend to be early in the morning or around midday. - Wear a mask (optional)
If you have a mask, you should wear it. If you don’t, don’t go out and buy one, medical masks should be saved for frontline workers. Masks can prevent the spread of COVID-19 from individuals who are infected but may not know it yet. - Sanitise
Sanitise your hands before entering and leaving the store. With sanitiser now in short supply, look out for sanitation stations at the front of your local supermarket. If you have sanitising wipes, you may wish to wipe down your trolley or basket before using. - Don’t handle food
Try not to pick up items unless you intend on buying them. This applies especially to fruit and vegetables. - Don’t panic buy
While it doesn’t hurt to have an extra soap at home, buying reasonable quantities will mean there’s stock left for others who desperately need it. - Hands down
Avoid touching your face, even if you are wearing gloves. - Social distance
Remember to keep a safe distance of 1.5m from other people at all times. - Pay with card
Where possible, use a contactless payment method like card or Apple Pay. Many supermarkets are now allowing tap-and-go payments up to $200.
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