by Sharon Quercioli
These are crazy times in which we are living. Not only are things still somewhat chaotic, they are frightening. However, people are starting to realize that we should expect at least some of what we are going through as a new normal. They are even calling this the COVID-19 season.
While the future of businesses, our professional lives and social interactions might be “in the air” for the foreseeable future, there are things we can do that can help keep us (and others) as safe as possible.
Wash your hands.
If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that we are not washing our hands enough or that we’ve had poor hand washing procedures. While I may wash my hands often, I will admit that I am more conscience of it since Covid started.
I have heard of several different techniques that you can use to time how long you wash your hands. When it comes down to it, washing your hands often, and for at least 20 seconds, is one of the most important things to remember.
But if you want a little trick, you can sing or hum these songs in your head to help note how much time has passed!
Sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.
Sing the “Alphabet” song once.
Sing the chorus to Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.”
Sing the “We will, we will rock you” line at least four times.
Hum the “Final Jeopardy” timer song.
Sing “Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star” once.
Say the Lord’s Prayer twice.
The key is to not sing the songs (or parts of songs) too fast. Remember that washing your hands should not be something we rush through. Make sure to get in between your fingers, scrub your nails and get in the little creases in your palms as well.
In addition, you should also be using a hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol to help protect yourself from getting and transmitting germs.
Wear a Mask
One thing I want to specify is that the cloth coverings and masks we use when we leave our homes are primarily for the protection of others, not ourselves. While you may not be exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, that does not mean you’re not a carrier. You may end up accidentally passing it along to someone who is a high-risk individual for COVID-19. Masks helps keep contaminated respiratory droplets from infecting other people when you talk, cough, sneeze, etc. There are some rules and regulations with masks as well:
Kids under two, pets and anyone who has trouble breathing (without a mask on) should not wear a mask.
Masks should be worn in such a way as to cover both your mouth and your nose.
People who are unconscious, incapacitated or unable to put on and remove the mast without assistance should not wear masks.
Who should wear a mask?
Simply put: the general public. Especially:
If you are outside, especially if social distancing is not feasible.
If you think you might be sick.
If you are a caregiver of someone with COVID-19.
Keep Using Proper Social Distancing Practices
According to the CDC, social distancing is the best way to reduce the spread of COVID-19. This means that you are keeping a safe space (6 feet or more) between yourself and other people (who do not live in your household). This is important to do in both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Because of the latest news reports about people socializing in public (going to beaches, amusement parks, and gathering in each other’s homes), let’s repeat that:
You should be practicing social distancing whether you are indoors or outdoors.
Clean and Disinfect Your Home Daily
Things you should be disinfecting on a regular basis include (but are not limited to):
Countertops
Tables
Chairs
Door handles (and other types of handles)
Light switches
Desks
Computers
Your phone
The toilet
The sink
These are all generally non-porous surfaces and should be disinfected with an appropriate solution such as an alcohol-based cleaner, an EPA-registered household disinfectant or a bleach-based solution.
Soft surfaces should also be cleaned. This means drapes, sheets, pillowcases, carpet, rugs and your clothes. When appropriate use a soap and water solution to clean the surface. Otherwise, launder your items according to the instructions on the tag and use the warmest water setting you can. Don’t forget to vacuum daily as well.
Electronics should also have manufacturer instructions when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting. If you cannot find any, use a wipe or spray that is alcohol-based and contains at least 70% alcohol. Make sure you dry the surface completely before using it again.
Eat Well and Stay Active
Eating well and staying active will not necessarily keep you safe from COVID. We’ve all seen news reports and articles that talk about healthy, athletic individuals contracting COVID no matter the age, race, health status or where they live. However, staying as healthy as possible will help keep your immune system strong and is better for your overall function of your heart, lungs, and digestive system. I try to at least walk three miles a day and enjoy the outdoors. It keeps my sanity!
To Summarize
To keep yourself (and others) as safe as possible during this COVID-19 season, it is important to:
Wash your hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds at a time.
Use hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol.
Practice social distancing (6 feet or more) with people outside your household, when you are indoors and outdoors.
Wear a mask when you are outside.
Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
Disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
Practice good cleanliness habits.
of your choice.”