Shopping Safely!

It has been interesting to see the different reactions of persons who go shopping during the COVID 19 pandemic. Some persons are very conscious of the new reality and ensure that they take the necessary precautions while others seem oblivious to what is happening around them.  So which of those two groups do you fall? Well, let’s examine their responses in detail.

The Prepared Shopper

The prepared shopper has a plan. They buy foodstuff that will last at least two weeks so as to avoid repeated visits to the store.  I am aware that not everyone has the ability to do this, however for those who are able to do so, this is highly recommended.  The preparation begins long before they actually enter the store. Many don masks and gloves before they leave the house for their shopping trip. I saw several shoppers with wipes which they used to wipe the handles of shopping carts.

Although some stores ask customers to remove gloves so that their hands can be sanitized, most customers were happy to comply and then replace the glove. A quick check on responses on social media shows that some persons still don’t like this practice as they are unsure of what is in the mixture that is being sprayed on their hands. I usually ask what the mixture contains or show that I have my own hand sanitizer and ask if that can be used instead as I have allergies. Stores have been mandated not to bar customers who wish to use their own hand sanitizers and to declare the contents of the spray by labeling the bottle.

While in the store, these safe shoppers maintain social distancing and stand well away from employees or the store or other customers. This applies not only when walking down the aisle but also when standing in line waiting to cash their goods. By taking  necessary precautions, these shoppers are being smart.  This mindset continues when they get home as shoes are left by the door and  items such as canned goods and shopping bags are wiped before they are stored.

The Casual Shopper

Then there are the other types of shoppers, who I know that you have all seen. They complain about being sprayed, although they have no other way of sanitizing their hands, they stand too close to everyone despite all the suggestions and are always touching their face then touching goods. They seem to lack any urgency as they wander aimlessly up and down the aisles.

So what type of shopper are you?

I have found the beauty of ordering groceries online or on the phone and having them delivered. I don’t have to leave home and any interaction with others is limited. A number of supermarkets are have explored this avenue of service and like many customers I am grateful to use it.

If you live in an area where delivery is an option, I would say that is a good way to reduce being around crowds.  If you have to out shopping however my advice is follow the prepared shopper! Keep safe! Tell me how you have been navigating shopping during the pandemic! Drop me a line below!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner online writer

Tags: covid-19, pandemic, shopping