If you live in a house, avoiding people during the coronavirus pandemic can be easy, but what if you live in an apartment complex?
It’s especially challenging to socially distance in apartment complexes where there are several shared spaces such as standard rooms, hallways, elevators and even mailboxes.
For those living in apartments, it’s a good idea to keep in touch with your property manager about some of the steps they’re taking to keep you safe. Additionally, there are several things that you can do to remain safe during this global pandemic.
Staying safe while getting your mail
One of the most common areas in an apartment complex is the mailboxes. Everyone has mail coming in at some point. If you live in an apartment and there’s a shared space for your mailboxes, there are some things that you can do to keep safe and practice social distancing during these unprecedented times.
1. Go at times when people likely won’t be there
To avoid exposure to others as best you can, try to get your mail at times when others are not likely to be in the area. You can decide to go early in the morning or late at night. If you notice there are times when there are no other people around, head to your mailbox and grab what you need.
It’s also a good idea to try to find out about what time your mail is delivered each day. This will help you avoid meeting your mailman during deliveries.
2. Take the stairs
Instead of using the elevator to your building, start using the stairs. Elevators are cramped spaces. The elevator also requires you to touch a surface that others have touched previously.
One of the ways you can keep your distance is to use the stairs instead. Not only does using the stairs eliminate being in a crowded space, but it also is an excellent form of exercise. If you see someone else on the stairs, you can step over on the landing and let them pass you at a safe distance.
Just be cautious that you don’t touch the handrails.
3. Wait for an empty elevator
If you live on a high floor of an apartment building, taking the stairs might not be an option. If you must take an elevator to get to your apartment, avoid getting into an elevator with other people.
This might mean that you have to wait for a bit for the elevator to come to you, but if many people are staying home, chances are, the elevators will be moving up and down frequently, and it’s definitely worth the wait.
Once you’re in the elevator, if several people try to get on with you, ask them to step to the side and get off on that floor. You can wait for the elevator to come back or take the stairs from whatever level you land on.
You can also ask your property manager to place signs in the elevator stating that the usage is limited to 30 percent. It’s also a good idea to see if they can put sanitizer or wipes in the elevator that passengers can use when they get on.
4. Wear a mask and gloves
Try to wear gloves and a mask when you venture out to your mailbox. This protective gear can help you avoid coming into direct contact with any germs that might be hanging around.
When you wear gloves to your mailbox, make sure that you dispose of them as soon as you get back inside your apartment. Avoid touching anything inside of your residence after you enter. Wash your hands right after, as well.
Remember, wet, soap and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds.
5. Wipe down your mailbox
You can also carry sanitizer with you and wipe down your mailbox before you get your mail and then again after you grab your mail out of the box. This can help not only you but your mail carrier, as well. Sanitizing your hands is an excellent way to help prevent the spread of germs.
6. Communicate
Talk to your property manager about any steps that they’re taking in regards to keeping the mailbox area clean and sanitized. Ask if they’re taking extra measures to ensure that the area is kept clean.
Maintain social distancing while going to get your mail
It can be challenging to practice social distancing when you’re living in an apartment complex. However, if you take a few relatively easy steps, you’ll be able to avoid contact with most of the people who are living around you and bring your mail back to your apartment, safe and sound.
