Still have Christmas gifts to buy? Here are tips for in-person shopping during COVID
As shoppers prepare to buy last-minute gifts for the holiday season, experts recommend taking steps this year to help protect against COVID-19.
During the coronavirus pandemic, health officials have recommended people limit in-person shopping.
But as shipping deadlines pass, some people may want to visit malls or shopping centers.
So what should you know if you still need to cross items off your list?
You should go to a store only if you don’t feel sick and have no coronavirus symptoms, such as a fever or cough, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Before leaving your house, health experts say it’s best to check if retailers have curbside services or rush delivery. When compared to visiting stores, buying gifts online poses a lower risk of spreading the virus, according to the CDC.
Holiday shoppers may want to consider visiting stores near them and steering clear of peak times, Emerson Hospital in Massachusetts said on its website. You can use Google to check a business’ peak hours and estimated wait time.
Another tip is to shop at an open-air market that allows people to practice social distancing, McClatchy News reported.
While in stores, the CDC recommends everyone wear masks, avoid touching their faces, stay at least six feet apart and use no-contact payment if possible. After the shopping trip, wash your hands with soap and water.
Officials say it’s also a good idea to keep safety in mind while exchanging holiday gifts. Suggestions include dropping off gifts to loved ones and opening presents on a video call to see their reactions, McClatchy News reported.
These tips come as health experts have urged families to avoid holiday travel this year. As coronavirus cases rise nationwide, the CDC says it’s safest to celebrate Christmas with the people you live with.
This story was originally published December 21, 2020 at 8:00 AM with the headline "Still have Christmas gifts to buy? Here are tips for in-person shopping during COVID."
