We have all been focused on staying at home as much as possible, but how can we safely go out and get items we need? Begin with a well-laid plan: a thorough grocery list. Consider how you can make the most out of your shopping trip; can you reasonably get all you need at one stop? Your mission will be to get everything you need while minimizing exposure to risks:
Make a grocery list. Take time to organize your list in the order of the store you are shopping in: a.) Organize by department: produce, meat, deli, dairy, grocery, freezer, pharmacy, baby items, etc. b.) Organize in the order you will be moving through the store.
Stick to your list; stay focused. Go alone for no distractions. Think to yourself, “Get what I need and get out.”
It is time to go. Wear long sleeves, pants, and a pair of old shoes you can leave outside, in the garage, or in the hallway.
Wear a mask. You can find instructions on how to make a mask online—sewing is not a requirement. Gloves are for cross contamination; they are not necessary if you keep your hands away from your face.
After parking your car, ensure your mask is on.
Go into the store. Do NOT grab the cart until you have a disinfectant wipe in your hand to grab it with.
Wipe down the entire handle of your cart, then throw the wipe away in the garbage.
Disinfect your hands with the provided hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer is hard to find these days, so use theirs whenever possible.
Off you go. Try to get in and out of the store within 15 to 20 minutes.
Just before checking out, sanitize your hands. Don’t grab your wallet before doing this. Don’t see any? Use the hand sanitizer at the front entrance if necessary.
After check out, use hand sanitizer one more time for the road.
Unload your groceries into the trunk/back of your car.
Once in your car, remove your mask if no more stops. If you have another stop, review number 6 on…
Once home, unload groceries and place them near your door. Remove your shoes before entering.
Once inside, change your clothes if able. If not, you are taking a minor risk.
Wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.
Now, unpack your groceries. Disinfect as needed. Use extra attention in washing your produce.
Don’t forget to disinfect your reusable bags before returning to your car.
Wash your hands when done.
Mission accomplished. Stay safe and stay home.