1. Only make essential trips
Try to make an effort to not duck out every few days to top up items from the shops. Remember, that if you’re doing so, you’ll have had significant exposure to unsanitised surfaces and people.
2. Wash your hands before and after
Before you leave, make sure you’re as clean as possible. This means sanitising and washing your hands and doing the same as soon as you return. It’s important to be mindful that there are other people who may be more vulnerable to illness than you. The World Health Organisation has created this great video that demonstrates how to wash your hands effectively. It says regular, safe, effective hand hygiene using soap and water, or alcohol-based sanitiser is a must.
3. Limit the number of passengers you drive around
The risk of exposure also increases the more passengers you have travelling in your vehicle.
4. Drive through where possible
Using services such as drive through or stop-and-grab chemists, as well as other shops will help limit your exposure. Businesses offering these services may be more common than you think, especially now.
5. Keep your car well sanitised
Keeping your car environment clean is a vital part of the hygiene puzzle. Think about what body parts have come into contact with potentially unclean surfaces and rub them down before entering your car. Areas such as the door handle, steering wheel, gear stick, air conditioning and radio buttons can also contain a significant number of germs. Clean these surfaces with surface disinfecting wipes each time you get into the car, or some kind of washable wipe covered in an EPA-recommended cleaning solution.
6. Keep an array of sanitisation products
Every car owner should have a first aid kit in their vehicle, now is the time to add a hand and car sanitisation kit. This should at least contain tissues, alcohol-based hand sanitiser, cleaning products and soap.
7. Cover your nose and mouth
Always cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If using a tissue dispose of it and any other items you may have used. It is crucial to not touch your face if your hands aren’t clean. The virus can enter through your eyes, nose and mouth.