By: Dyllan Griepentrog
As we continue to navigate through a college experience that has been drastically affected by COVID-19, it’s extremely important that we use all safety precautions so we can protect ourselves as well as those around us. Here are five ways for you to stay safe on-campus and off.
Wear a Face Covering
Wearing a face covering while out in public is a great and scientifically proven way for us to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Whether you are traveling to the Trig’s, South Point Diner or heading to a small gathering with some friends, make sure that you have your face covering with you and readily available when heading inside.
While wearing a face covering might be inconvenient, there are a TON of really awesome designs to fit your personal style. If you haven’t already, search the internet for some custom face coverings that interest you!
Stay ONE Stevie Away
Remember to always social distance when you are out in public. As you’re grocery shopping, waiting in the line to get your textbooks or playing cornhole with your friends, remember to always stay at least one Stevie away (six feet). Besides, you don’t need to be right next to somebody to have a conversation with them. Six feet will do!
If someone is invading your personal space or standing closer than six feet, remember to kindly ask them to back up.
Wash, Sanitize and Don’t Share
I’m sure you have all heard this before, but wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Singing UWSP’s school song, “The Purple and The Gold”, should do the trick. Don’t forget to use hand sanitizer after touching door handles and other surfaces. Most importantly, if you have classes in-person, don’t forget to clean your desk space before and after you use it.
Also, don’t share things. Sharing your food, drinks and school supplies help spread COVID-19. Sharing isn’t always caring, especially now!
Be Outside, but in Small Groups
If you’re someone who loves being outside, then this suggestion won’t phase you. Go outside and enjoy the weather! Not only are you protecting yourself from COVID, but you’re also enjoying the wonderful weather that fall brings. Grill out with your friends, take a walk through Schmeeckle or hang out in a hammock. Whatever you do, just enjoy the weather while it lasts!
Additionally, remember to limit the size of your groups. The fewer people you have hanging around reduces the risk of spreading COVID and potentially getting other sick. Find yourself a group of four to five close friends and stay around them.
Think Outside the Box
Who needs handshakes, knuckles, or high fives when you can come up with new ways to greet one another…or to say goodbye, of course. Get those creative juices flowing and think of different ways to communicate without touching other people’s hands. Maybe you want to elbow bump or tap your heels together. At the end of the day, just have fun with it!
I challenge you to be the next trendsetter and come up with something big! Something the entire world can get behind.
Pointers, we’re living in weird times. Times where we have to take extreme measures to protect ourselves and everyone around us. If you follow the steps above you will be doing your part in keeping your community safe. Lastly, remember that we are all in this together. Stopping the spread of COVID-19 is a team effort. If you see others not following social distancing or face covering guidelines, respectfully ask them to social distance or put their face covering on. For your safety and for theirs.
Oh…and one last thing, if you feel sick, stay home.
