As many of us around the world are being forced to self-isolate as governments take more stringent measures to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, this week’s blog looks at what you need to do to ensure your household is prepared.
As many of us around the world are being forced to self-isolate as governments take more stringent measures to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, this week’s blog looks at what you need to do to ensure your household is prepared.
Stay informed
Firstly it’s important to stay up to date on the latest COVID-19 advice from public health officials and local authorities.
Know where to go for up to date information in your area. Below is a list of some of the key government resources to check. You may also want to create a list of local organisations you and your household can contact in case you need access to information, healthcare services, support, and other resources.
Stock your larder
While we should avoid panic buying and taking more than we need, it is important to make sure you have sufficient food and drink to get through the lockdown.
Many governments are mandating that people stay home completely or only go out when absolutely necessary. This means you want to avoid a situation where you don’t have sufficient supplies and are forced to leave the house to buy groceries on a regular basis. What’s more you want to make sure your household is prepared should you fall ill and have to self-isolate. The advice is to have sufficient supplies to last two weeks, as 14 days is the length of most self-isolation periods.
So what should you stock up on?
Consider your healthcare and medication needs
Of course we are all focused on our health at this time, and it's crucial that your healthcare needs form part of your contingency planning.
Prepare for possible illness
It can be difficult to contemplate the worst, but it’s vital that you plan ahead in case you or a family member does fall ill.
Make childcare arrangements
As many schools and nurseries around the world have been closed due to the pandemic, it’s also important to make contingency plans for childcare. We know that disruption to your childcare routine can be extremely difficult for many families, particularly if both parents works, so it’s important you have this conversation early on and consider the various options.
Make sure you know what your child’s school or childcare facility emergency plans are and discuss arrangements with your employer if necessary. You should also consider what to do if both parents fall ill and are unable to look after the children temporarily.
Prepare your family mentally
While it can be difficult to contemplate the worst happening, it is useful to host a family meeting to discuss what you would do should one of you fall ill, and what the different needs of each person will be, including those that are more vulnerable to the virus. Having a practical conversation about how you will support each other can help to alleviate any anxiety and concerns.
It’s also vital that you plan some fun activities together to help lighten the mood in what may be a very challenging time. Whether it’s a weekly board game night, getting your children involved in the cooking, or a regular virtual catch up with friends and family, there are plenty of ways you can help keep children entertained while stuck indoors.
Consider how you can help others
Finally, as well as preparing for your own family, it’s important to check in with family and friends who live alone — especially those with chronic diseases that may be more vulnerable than you. You may want to ask an elderly neighbour if they need someone to help buy groceries or collect medication for them; we all need to support each other during this difficult time.
By taking these simple steps you can better prepare your household to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. By planning ahead you can help to keep your family safe and secure, and reduce unnecessary stress and anxiety. We encourage you all to stay home and stay safe, and don’t forget to wash those hands!