Social distancing is probably one word this generation will never forget. Who would have thought a single virus could forever change the world as we know it.
Travel will no longer be the same. Commuting on public transport will no longer be the same. Shopping in the malls used to be something we wouldn’t have to think twice about anymore. These days, it seems like we need to go shopping with an army of supplies.
Hand sanitizers. Disinfectant wipes. Face masks. And, of course, some social distancing tips at the mall. While the lockdown may be easing in many countries worldwide, we’re not out of the woods yet.
Even though it’s safe to visit malls like the Newmarket Shopping Plaza, practicing social distancing measures and good hygiene is still highly recommended. Supermarkets and malls are the ones that we can’t manage from the comfort of our own homes. Shopping for essentials still must go on.
Lucky for us, there are certain steps we can do on our own to practise social distancing. This way, we keep ourselves and everyone else as safe as possible. Especially in crowded areas like shopping malls. If you do have to head out the door to shop for your weekly essentials, don’t forget to bring these tips along with you:
Tip #1: Maintain a safe distance between you and other shoppers
Shopping at the mall is something that needs conscious effort now. Instead of idly browsing the stores, we now need to stay alert. Stay alert and make sure that we’re always at least two meters away from the people within our immediate vicinity.
When you’re queuing at the cash register, keep a distance of at least two meters from the person in front of you. When you’re browsing the aisles for your products, make sure you’re not standing too close to anyone at the same time. If someone is browsing the same items you are, be patient and wait until they are finished.
Tip #2: Follow the markings on the floor
If you’re worried that keeping a safe distance will sometimes slip your mind, the malls have made it easy. Most malls these days should have markings on the floor indicating where each shopper should be.
If you’re having trouble, glance at the floor to remind you where you should be standing. When you spot that you’re standing too close to someone, quickly move back to where the markers suggest you should contact me. When in doubt, seek them (the floor markers) out.
Tip #3: Shopping is a solo activity
It may have been fun shopping in groups with your friends, but those days are sadly gone. Well, for now, at least. Shopping at the malls should become a solo activity to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
It is much easier to maintain social distancing measures when you’re on your own. This way, you only have yourself to worry about. You’re not invading anyone’s space, and no one is invading your space either.
Tip #4: Make it a quick shopping trip
Maybe shopping was something you looked forward to because browsing the stores was fun, but shopping should now be a quick trip in these pandemic days. The best way to maintain social distancing at the malls is to make it a quick trip.
You go to the mall, get in, get what you want, and get out. You need to now shop with a purpose. Making a shopping list is even better because you stay focused on what you need to get, and you don’t linger longer than you have to.
Tip #5: Use contactless payment methods
Some people love the old-school way of paying with cash. But once again, the pandemic has nipped that in the bud. Everything can and should be contactless now, including your method of payment.
Before you head to the malls, download any possible apps that you might need. When you’re at the store, opt for contactless payment, so you and the cashier don’t have to come too close.
Tip #6: Use the mall escalators
The lifts are something you should now avoid at shopping malls. Even if it takes you the longer route, escalators are now your mode of travel from one floor to the other. It is impossible to maintain social distancing in a lift, especially when more than one person is riding in it.
In a busy complex like a shopping mall, you have one person in the lift. If you can, always opt for the escalators where possible. Even better, use the stairs if the malls have them. It’s a great way to squeeze in a quick workout while you do your shopping.
To maximize the safest shopping experience possible, always check the safety measures that your local malls have in place. If everyone respects these rules, shopping becomes a much safer experience.