For much of Washington State, the coronavirus (COVID-19) is sparking fear. Lengthy discussions about the signs and symptoms abound. Mass runs on everyday supplies have left grocery store shelves bare. And according to specialists, it’s likely to get worse before it gets better.
In an interview on March 2, 2020, Marc Lipsitch, professor of epidemiology and director of the Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics said:
If it really does spread as widely as that projection says [40-70% of the world's population], and that’s what I think is likely to happen, then there are going to be millions of people dying. And I don’t think there’s any way to get around that. I think there’s a real reason to be concerned. I also think that we can turn that concern into actions that will make the situation better.
But what actions can you take to protect yourself and your family? According to the American Red Cross, one step you can take is to prepare your household like you would for any emergency by stocking up on the essentials.
And it seems many an individual is taking this advice, especially where hand sanitizer is concerned. CNBC’s Chloe Taylor reports the sales of hand sanitizer have skyrocketed, which has led to rationing and price hikes.
Historically, mass pandemics have resulted in an uptick in crime. In recent years, the U.S. burglary rates saw spikes in both 2003 (when SARS scared the nation) and 2009 (when the influenza pandemic swept through communities).
Stocking up — and protecting those high-value items like hand sanitizer — can ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
19 Coronavirus Safety Supplies
While storing the following coronavirus safety supplies in your safe might be a ‘little’ extreme, making sure you have more than a box of Cheerios and a Lean Cuisine is definitely a good idea.
1. Hand Soap
Hands down, the best way to protect against the spread of any disease is to practice good hygiene. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends you, “wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.”
2. Hand Sanitizer
If soap and water are not available, the CDC recommends you wash your hands with hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
3. 30 Day Supply of all Medicines
Being without essential medicine for days can pose a serious threat to your health and add a sense of panic. Generally speaking, a 30-day supply of all key medicines will give you enough time to secure a refill.
4. Pain Relievers
Simple pain relievers, like Ibuprofen and Aleve, can save you from unnecessary discomfort.
5. Detergent
Dirty laundry has a tendency to build up, whether you’re fighting off a cold or just living your day-to-day life. Make sure you have detergent on hand, so you can give your wardrobe the TLC it needs.
6. Dish Soap
Like washing your hands, thoroughly washing your dishes is another essential step in good personal hygiene.
7. Disinfectant Wipes
Disinfectant wipes offer an easy way to quickly banish unwanted germs from commonly touched surfaces, such as seatbelt buckles, light switches, and doorknobs. In a pinch, they can also be used to clean your hands.
8. Water
As a general rule of thumb, a person can only live for three days without water. This duration can be significantly cut down when you’re battling an illness. Make sure you have a supply of water on hand in the event you lose access to clean drinking water.
9. Fluids with Electrolytes
In addition to plain water, it’s a good idea to have fluids with electrolytes on hand. When you’re battling an illness, these fortifying drinks can help hydrate and nourish at the same time.
10. Vitamins
For your body to function at its optimal level, it relies on key vitamins and nutrients. Experiencing any sort of deficiency can hamper your immune system, making it harder to fight off illness. By regularly taking key vitamins, you can help prevent a deficiency from occurring.
(This is in no way endorsing one vitamin or a set of vitamins. Please consult a medical professional to identify which vitamins are essential for your body.)
11. Toilet Paper
When you gotta go, you gotta go.
12. Canned Food
You probably don’t want to live off canned food for the rest of your life. But in the event that you need to stay home for an extended period of time, canned food ensures you don’t have to worry about fresh produce spoiling.
13. Frozen Food
Like canned food, frozen food lets you enjoy an extended shelf life for key ingredients. This can be an excellent way to stock up on fruits and vegetables.
14. Dried Food
Dried food is another good way to keep food on hand. From freeze-dried meals to dried pasta and beans, you can easily stock up on an extended supply of ingredients.
15. Coffee
Coffee isn’t technically a make-or-break for your health. But if you are a regular coffee drinker, you know how much better a day can be with a Cup of Joe.
16. Chocolate
Like coffee, chocolate isn’t a lifesaver. But when you’re hold up in one place — like your home — having small ways to brighten your day can significantly improve your mental health. Chocolate is a natural aphrodisiac that has a long shelf life, offering a good pick-me-up for nearly everyone
Coronavirus Supplies if You Have a Baby
17. Diapers
Like washing your hands and cleaning your clothes, changing your baby’s diaper regularly is essential to good hygiene.
18. Formula
Especially if your baby exclusively drinks formula, make sure to stock up on an extended supply.
19. Baby Wipes
While you can most certainly use warm water and a gentle baby wash to clean your kiddo during each diaper change, baby wipes are a lot more convenient.
Looking to increase your home security without leaving your house? Order your safe online and have it delivered.