August is right around the corner, which typically means it’s time to go back to school for many Americans. With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to sweep the nation, back to school season may be different with some schools going online and others opening their doors with added precautions.
Whatever decision local school leaders, public health experts, and politicians make regarding schools, it’s best to be prepared. In this article, we’ll discuss 4 back to school safety tips to help keep you and your children safe and healthy.
Be Informed of COVID-19 Symptoms
Be aware of the symptoms of COVID-19 in the event your child or anyone you know has been infected or exposed. There are a lot of varying symptoms, so knowing what to look for can help prevent infecting others.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms or had contact with someone who was infected, it is best to stay home and avoid further spread. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying home for 14 days after your last contact with a person who was infected.
Stay Home When Possible
If your child goes to school, it’s important to factor the exposure risk your child may bring to the school community if he or she goes elsewhere, such as a road trip or traveling. Try to limit high density areas as much as possible and be adequately prepared with face masks, hand sanitizer, and sanitizing wipes.
It’s also important to avoid public transit and driving, if possible. Public transit could mean close quarters with others, heightening the risk of exposure and infection. According to recent car collision data, while many cities have fewer cars on the road during the pandemic, the number of motor vehicle deaths is still the same. “In our years of practice area experience, we have come to recognize that most serious car accidents share the same cause: human error,” note Martinsburg accident attorneys at Manchin Ferretti Injury Law. Whether or not there are fewer cars, human error still pays the largest role in accidents.
Instead of driving or taking public transit, opt for delivery instead.
Create a Hygiene Plan
Create a hygiene plan for you and your child. Teach and reinforce proper handwashing techniques, including using warm, soapy water and rubbing hands together for at least 20 seconds. If handwashing is unavailable, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be another alternative.
Discuss the importance of sanitizing surfaces and how to keep your loved ones school materials safe and clean, by not sharing and ensuring products are wiped down after use or after returning from school. Also discuss the importance of covering coughs and sneezes with tissues and the importance of washing or sanitizing hands afterwards.
Encourage Mask Wearing
While mask wearing can be exhausting, it is an efficient and proven way to slow and prevent transition of COVID-19. Remind your child that wearing a mask is not only to keep him or her safe, but to keep others safe as well.
A mask or face covering should fully cover the nose and mouth, and fit snugly against the sides of the face. Children over the age of 3 are encouraged to wear a mask.
Going “back to school” during a global pandemic offers unique challenges that change the way we approach safety and health for our loved ones and communities. Using these four tips, you can best prepare your child for the back to school season, whether your child is at home or in a classroom. Either way, always put safety and health first. Stay informed and stay safe this upcoming back to school season!