8 Tips for a safe move during the pandemic
The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic caught most people completely unprepared. Even after two years, we are still struggling to find a way to cope with it. Some countries are imposing draconic lockdowns, some are trying for a collective immunity, but the fact of the matter is that the pandemic is simply a part of our lives now. If you are considering a relocation, it is in your best interest to know how to conduct a safe move during the pandemic. In this article, we will show you how to utilize secure storage NYC options to make the process safer, as well as provide you with several tips for the relocation process. So, without any further ado, let’s see:
How to conduct a safe move during the pandemic
Here are the 8 tips that can make your relocation process much safer:
- Choose the best relocation type
- Obtain virtual quotes
- Be thorough with cleaning
- Observe social distancing protocols
- Avoid handshaking
- Wash hands more often
- Limit your outgoing activities
- Monitor for symptoms
Most of the tips involve minimizing human contact in any way possible. This is simply the best way to protect yourself from the virus and create a safe moving environment. While it may be impossible to completely eliminate any risk, you want to bring it to a manageable level.
Choosing the best way to relocate
You have several options when it comes to your relocation process. First, you can go the traditional route by hiring a professional moving company. This approach poses a bit more risk than the others, due to the fact that you will have to deal with other people. Even though your movers will take the necessary precautions, the risk of being around them is still quite significant. The other option is to utilize a storage unit in your relocation process. For example, by utilizing a business storage NYC solution, you can have your items in “quarantine” before you relocate them to the new location. This approach minimizes your contact with people, making it a much safer way to relocate.
Lastly, if you have the time, energy, and inclination, you can perform a DIY relocation. This means that you and your family will be taking on all the relocation challenges on your own. Of course, renting a storage unit for the purpose will make the process much easier, so it is a thing that you might want to consider.
Virtual quotes are the way to go
Regardless of what you do, chances are that you are going to need at least some relocation services. Normally, to get a price for your move, you will need to schedule an in-home inspection. Needless to say, these inspections pose a risk of infection. Therefore, your best option is to arrange a “virtual quote” instead. This approach can be utilized for just about anything these days, from car storage NYC to full home inspection. Most companies are adapting to the times and offer virtual quoting opportunities.
Clean and disinfect everything
While cleanliness is always important, the pandemic necessitates that we become a bit more thorough when it comes to cleaning our homes and belongings. Aside from having everything look clean, you also need to make sure that your items are disinfected to the best of your ability.
You will want to make it into your routine to clean and disinfect everything that gets touched on a regular basis, such as tables, light switches, sinks, faucets, countertops, etc. Make sure that you are using the adequate solution for the task, and do not mix chemicals. Ideally, you will also want to wear protective items such as rubber gloves. If you are using stronger chemicals, make sure that you open windows and doors to increase ventilation. You can also send your belongings to one of the storage facilities Manhattan has on offer, where they will be cleaned and disinfected for you. Provided you choose the appropriate facility, that is.
Observe social distancing protocols to have a safe move during the pandemic
The best “weapons” we have against COVID-19 are social distancing protocols. This means that you should try to keep your distance between yourself and others by at least six feet if you can manage it, wear masks when in proximity to other people, as well as limit food sharing and avoid touching your face, as well as follow other CDC guidelines. You may even want to set reminders for yourself in form of text or email notifications.
Try to avoid any handshaking
During the relocation, you might find yourself in a position where you would normally shake hands with another person to “seal the deal”. Avoid doing this, as handshaking can be extremely risky. A smile and a kind word can work much to the same effect.
But also wash your hands frequently
No handshaking does not mean that you don’t need to wash your hands more often than before. And if you are employing moving assistance, make sure to ask them to wash their hands frequently, as well. Of course, provide your movers with everything they need for the task to be efficient, such as cleaning wipes. And you might want to limit the restroom activity to a single restroom only.
Limit outgoing activities
Conducting a safe move throughout the pandemic is all about limiting risk, as we mentioned before. That is why you might want to consider limiting any activity that will take you outdoors. While you can make your home virus-free and safe from COVID, you simply can’t do that in other people’s homes and businesses. We are not saying that you need to barricade yourself in your home but you may want to reduce going out as much as you can.
Self-monitor for any signs of COVID-19
While it may be difficult to figure out whether someone from your household has COVID or not, you still need to actively monitor for symptoms. Here are some of the most common symptoms you will need to be mindful of:
- Loss of taste or smell
- Diarrhea
- Cough
- Fever/chills
- Shortness of breath
- Headache
- Sore throat
We are not saying that any of these symptoms is a guarantee of anyone catching COVID-19, but they are an indication of the possibility. If you want to conduct a safe move during the pandemic, you will do well to monitor these signs and track their progression.