Avurudu Shopping safely during the COVID 19 pandemic

Coming into contact with someone infected with COVID-19 (corona virus) is the main risk when you are out Aluth Avurudu Shopping.

When shopping you should:

wear a face covering follow good hygiene practices practice social distancing minimise contact with people outside of your household

There is very little risk to you if you are just passing by someone briefly in a shop. But try to keep a distance of 2 metres as much as possible.

FACE COVERINGS

By law, you have to wear a face covering in shops and shopping centres even during the Aluth Avrudu 2021 festive season. This is because it can be difficult to practice social distancing when in a shop.You should also wear a face covering in busy or crowded outdoor spaces, such as shopping streets.

But face coverings are not suitable for everyone. It is OK if some people choose not to wear them. Face coverings are not recommended for children under the age of 13 or people with special needs who may feel upset or very uncomfortable wearing one. Wear a medical face mask instead of a cloth face covering if you are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19.

WHEN TO STAY AT HOME

Do not go out shopping if you are feeling unwell.If you are at higher risk from coronavirus, consider doing your shopping online or ask someone to go for you.

If you need help, you can also contact your Grama Niladhari. They have community support in place to help deliver essential items.

REDUCE YOUR RISK WHEN SHOPPING

Only go shopping when you need to do so. This reduces your risk of getting or spreading COVID-19.

WHEN ENGAGED IN ALUTH AVURUDU SHOPPING

Use the sanitiser provided for your hands and trolley or basket. Remember to avoid touching your face.

Wear a face covering if you are over 13 years old - but you do not have to wear one if you have an illness or impairment that would make wearing a face covering uncomfortable. If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve.

Follow social distancing guidelines - keep 2 metres distance between yourself and others in queues and while shopping.

Pay by card instead of cash - contactless payment may reduce the risk of infection. If you use cash, the risk is low, particularly if you clean your hands regularly after handling cash.

AFTER ALUTH AVURUDU SHOPPING

Wash your hands properly. Put away your shopping. Wash your hands again.

RESPECTING OTHERS

Only buy what you need - stores will be restocked daily. Do not go shopping during dedicated shopping times that are in place for healthcare workers and people who are at very high risk from COVID-19.

Delivery and collection services are very important for people who are very high risk from COVID-19 and not able to leave their homes. Please only book delivery slots if you need to.

ALUTH AVURUDU SHOPPING FOR A VULNERABLE PERSON

If you have to do Aluth Avurudu Shopping for someone who has been told not to meet other people by their doctor: Leave the shopping ontheir doorstep

Ring the bell or phone them Stand back while they collect it