The ‘don’ts’ of shopping during the pandemic

As the coronavirus crisis intensifies with each passing day, daily errands have become intimidating. Grocery shopping now requires more thought and planning than ever before, not just to protect ourselves, but also as social responsibility, to lower  exposure of the essential workers at the stores, who leave the safety of their homes everyday so that we can keep our homes running. To make their lives, and ours easier, here are some ways to not go grocery shopping.

Do not come unprepared

To get things done more efficiently, having a well-thought-out list of supplies to last at least a week saves a lot of time. Wear a mask and gloves, and carry disinfectant wipes or sanitisers to wipe down any cans, the trolley handle or other exposed surfaces before contact so as to ensure the buyer's safety.

Stores provide disinfectants to their customers before entering. If needed, politely ask for a little extra to give the trolley handle a wipe.

Do not bring the entire family

Keeping social distancing rules in mind and to limit exposure, it is best to go grocery shopping alone. Having grandparents or children around to help shop puts them at unnecessary risk. This is not a family activity!

Do not ignore markers on the floor

Some stores have designated markers on the floor to encourage social distancing. These markers tell the customer where to stand while maintaining a safe distance between the customers during checkout. Be attentive of the signs!

Do not get in the worker's personal space

Even though the aisles of the grocery store do not make social distancing easy, it is of vital importance that we still try our best. While interacting with an employee, do not forget that this is another human being who is just at risk as anyone else. Their safety is also a concern, as without them, the shops would close down.

In short, give them the space you would expect other people to give you.

Do not go to the store to stretch your legs

Cabin fever is real and going grocery shopping sounds like a dream come true nowadays. However, that does not mean one should go to the store to get some fresh air or exercise and crowd the place. Best to leave grocery store trips for necessities rather than recreation.

Do not touch things you do not intend to buy

We all love fresh produce. But now is not the time to be touching fruits and vegetables to get a feel of the freshness and inspecting it for imperfections. Unless one intends to buy something, best not to touch it for the sake of their own safety and everyone else's.

Avoid paying with cash

If possible, using a credit card or debit card, as it is safer than a hands-on transaction. Some stores take payment through Bkash as well. If an alternative is available, use it!

Keep in mind that lashing out at the workers for not having something in stock will do anyone any good. These workers are working in highly stressful environments, putting themselves and their families at risk. A simple 'please' or 'thank you' goes a long way to making these trying times easier.

Lastly, do not forget that we are all in this together!

Photo: LS Archive/ Sazzad Ibne Sayed