Staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic is becoming harder in Australia because of the fast approaching winter season. Also known as the flu season, winter is the ideal climate for viruses, bacteria and germs to breed and spread. While trying to stay safe is going to be difficult, it is possible. We just need to be vigilant and follow certain steps.

The COVID-19 pandemic has decimated the entire world. Not only from a medical point of view, but in every possible social way we can imagine. Economics are faltering, politics are entirely and solely focused on the pandemic and how to deal with it, and our social lives are virtually non-existent.

Borders are closing fast and things we once took for granted are fast becoming hard to get. The COVID-19 Pandemic has brought death, destruction, and severe life style changes on a global scale. So for the most part we are left to our own devices, and must cease looking for solutions and answers from those who we think are in charge. Take charge of your own life by using common sense, logic, and implementing strict rules for yourself and immediate family members.

KEEP YOURSELF AND FAMILY ISOLATED.

Remain indoors. Your home is now your castle. Set it up as comfortably as possible for you and your family. And remember, winter is fast approaching and particularly in Melbourne, we may be in for some nasty weather. It is therefore important to stock up on items that can last. The less trips you make to supermarkets, the better. Buy foods and products that have a long shelf life. Stock up on disinfectants, toilet cleaning products, sanitisers (where available), and even alcoholic spirits.

2. MAINTAIN A SANITISED HOUSEHOLD ( Using a PVA Chamois With Surface Sanitiser)

Keep your clean, disinfected, and sanitised. Despite what you may think, unwanted bacteria can still get in to a well protected home. Whether it is carried in by infected, insects, rodents, or simply airborne, it is always best to play it safe. Keep high traffic areas of the home disinfected and sanitised. Make a habit of wiping down benches and tabletops regularly. Even use hot soap and water if no other solutions are available. When using a cloth to wipe down surfaces, a chamois is recommended. Even a pea chamois is good used with isopropyl alcohol or surface sanitiser. Pva chamois’ pick up everything and do not leave any fibres behind.

3. WEAR FACE MASKS OUT DOORS.

If you must venture outdoors, it is important you keep your nose and mouth covered at all times. Using 3 ply surgical face masks is the ideal way to go. No matter how much we intend to remain isolated, there are instances where we are forced to leave the home. Shopping, doctors appointments and other medical tests, taking kids to school, and work. While wearing a face mask is not a guarantee of safety, it does help to alleviate the possibility of spreading airborne liquids. If you must handle the face mask, do it with clean, preferably sanitised hands.

4. AVOID CONGREGATING IN GROUPS.

Keep a relative caution space between you and others. Approximately 1.5 metres or so is a good rule of thumb. Remember, no shaking hands, kissing or cuddling, and pats on the back. Make a conscious effort to refrain from physical contact.