The North Bend Eagle

 


Social distancing, smart shopping emphasised


Posted 4/2/20

LINCOOLN - At an April 1 news conference in the state capitol, Governor Pete Ricketts and other state officials emphasied the importance of social distancing, including when grocery shopping.

Kathy Siefken, Executive Director of the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association, took part in the press conference. She reinforced the importance of social distancing while shopping for groceries and gave the following advice to shoppers:

  • If stores appear busy or crowded, delay shopping until a later time.
  • Shop alone.  Do not run errands with your family or a group of friends.
  • Make a list of what to buy in advance of your shopping trip to reduce time spent in the store.
  • Buy a week’s worth of groceries in a single visit to limit your number of trips to the store.
  • Shop with your eyes.  Only touch products that you intend to purchase.
  • Maintain a minimum distance of six feet from other customers and store workers whenever possible.
  • Do not shop while sick.  Contact friends, neighbors, and your church, synagogue, or faith community to ask for help getting essential supplies.
  • Do not bring reusable bags or backpacks into stores during the pandemic.
  • Do not hoard goods.  The supply chain is working well, and items will be replenished in short order.  In particular, manufacturers have ramped up production of in-demand goods like toilet paper. 
  • Wash / sanitize your hands often.

The governor also reminded Nebraskans of social distancing guidelines and of the need to practice good hygiene. His recommendations include:

  • Remember to practice social distancing by keeping 6 feet from others. This applies in the workplace, when exercising outdoors or when running errands.
  • Don’t shop if you don’t feel well.
  • Cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze with a tissue or use your elbow.
  • Wash and sanitize your hands before and after shopping.
  • Whenever possible, shop online for curbside pickup or home delivery.

 

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