COVID-19 is still with us and will likely be a large part of our lives for several months to come. Because of this, social distancing is still a necessary procedure to practice to minimize the risks to not just ourselves but also our families and neighbors.
Those who live in single-family dwellings have a reasonably easy time maintaining safe social distancing practices. But what about those who live in apartment communities? The challenges can be a bit different, and it’s good to remember the extra steps one needs to take to keep everyone healthy.
Wear masks
Yes, masks can be uncomfortable to wear at times. But medical experts agree that wearing a mask—even handmade cloth masks—can significantly reduce the transmission of germs. While cloth masks are not on the same level as the more highly rated N95 respirator masks, consistent use of cloth masks among the public has helped keep infection rates from becoming worse than they could be.
Be sure to wash your masks regularly.
Keep washing your hands
Dealing with COVID-19 seems like an endurance contest at times. Just the same, it’s important not to let your guard down. Continue to follow regular hand-washing habits—20 seconds at a minimum with soap and hot water. Use hand sanitizer whenever possible—especially after coming into close contact with other people or shared surfaces.
Limit outside contact
We’re all looking forward to a time when life can return to normal. That day will come, but for now, we should still all limit contact with people outside our families or personal circle. (Most experts suggest limiting your circle of contacts to no more than five people.)
You can hold off on restaurant visits and movie theater experiences for a bit longer. Curbside takeout and movies at home are still excellent ways to enjoy creature comforts without running the risk of spreading or catching an infection.
Use stairs when you can
When living in an apartment community, you have to understand that many people are going to be still going on with their lives. They’ll again be coming and going in and around your community.
Apartment management is doing its best to keep elevators and other shared spaces as clean as possible. Still, elevators, due to their enclosed nature, can be especially tricky to remain free of germs. You can limit your part by taking the stairs when possible and leaving the elevators to those with medical conditions that don’t allow them to use stairs as easily.
Remember to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after using the handrails.
Be patient about on-site facilities
We’re all in this together. If your apartment community has shared areas such as gyms, yoga rooms, cafes, and the like, be a bit understanding if they are currently closed or strictly limited in their availability.
Look for alternatives. Many can exercise in their own homes. There are numerous socializing options via modern technology, such as group video chat and group gaming networks.
When a shared space opens up in your community, understand that many people are going to want a turn. If it means waiting a little bit, it’s still worth it if it means helping to keep others safe.
Do your part in helping to keep everyone safe
Social distancing, wearing masks, and practicing careful hygiene isn’t just about keeping you safe, but keeping others safe. While you may not feel personally threatened by COVID-19, those with compromised immunity, heart conditions, breathing conditions, diabetes, and other medical issues are much more at risk.
By practicing social distancing and other COVID-19 guidelines, you’re helping others in your community.as well as yourself.
When we come through the other side of this, we’ll be stronger and better as a group.
That’s certainly not a bad thing.
This post is sponsored by The VUE, a luxury apartment community located in the heart of uptown Charlotte, NC.
