How do protests keep me healthy and safe during a pandemic?

George Floyd’s death triggered a movement calling for justice in Black Lives Matter’s protests across the country. If you want to attend a demo but are hesitant about your safety and health concerns, you’re not alone. COVID-19 Being in the crowd in the midst of a pandemic is a big risk. In addition, the fear of violence and the heat of the month of June mean that we are making thoughtful decisions.

If you want to go, here are some tips to keep you safe and healthy while on the go.

Protect yourself and others

If you become ill with COVID-19 fever and other symptoms, do not leave home. In mass gatherings, it is difficult to maintain measures to maintain social distance and can easily spread the disease to others. Also, the risk of catching COVID-19 when going out is high. Plan to isolate yourself for 14 days after the protest.

Also, before making a decision, consider the risk of serious complications when infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people are mildly ill, but anyone, especially those over the age of 65 or those with chronic illnesses such as heart and lung disorders, diabetes, obesity, and cancer, can be seriously ill.

Safety plan

To be safe, go with friends and small groups and make sure everyone is on the same page for more information. How do you go back and forth in protest? Is group chat set up so that you can communicate easily? Identify where there are emergency stations and locations where you can stop for a rest break.

Unfortunately, the chaotic threat of peaceful demonstrations is real. To stay safe, consider going early in the day and avoiding areas of violence. If you are away from the group, decide where to meet.

Wear protective equipment

You must wear a face mask to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Choose one that is comfortable and comfortable. If you can use a medical or construction N95 mask, it’s a good idea to use it because it’s close to others. You should only remove it when you eat or drink something. In all other cases, plan to leave it on at all times.

Consider wearing the face shield as an extra layer on top of the face mask. Protect your eyes, keep your face mask clean and avoid touching your face with dirty hands. Choose a clear plastic face shield. It extends well from the ends of the face to both ears, down to the chin. There should be no gap between the forehead and the headpiece.

There is a risk of injuries that need to be prepared, whether due to accidental drops or intentional violence such as rubber bullets. Wear a hat and covered clothing to protect your skin from trauma and sunlight. Choose comfortable walking shoes with closed toes to protect against road debris. Do not wear anything that can be easily grasped, such as loose jewelry.

May be exposed to tear gas or pepper spray. Masks, face shields, hats, covered clothing, and shoes near the toes all reduce direct exposure to these chemicals and can cause intense burning and irritation to the eyes, skin, and lungs. Reduce. Avoid sunscreen, makeup and contact lenses. All of these can trap chemicals and worsen irritation.

Pack supplies

Plan a day much longer than you expected. You may not be able to enter the store, so please bring water and light snacks. To prevent the spread of infection, bring (and use often) hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes. Prepare essential medicines, especially if you may need emergency medicines such as epinephrine auto-injectors or inhalers. Also, never leave home without additional cash, emergency contact information written on paper, or emergency contact written with a permanent marker on your body, and a mobile phone charger.

A simple first aid kit with band aid, gloves, water or saline is also recommended. If you are exposed to tear gas or pepper spray, head up to fresh air and go to a first aid station. Do not rub your eyes Instead, rinse your eyes and skin with clean water or saline. If possible, wash with mild soap and sooth the burned skin with an ice pack. We recommend using milk or baking soda online, but it is not hygienic and there is a risk of infection. Apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and charcoal dust are also useless.

As safe as possible

Stay close to the group and pay attention to others while protesting. Don’t be afraid to leave without feeling safe.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19, wear a face mask and shield securely. Your highest risk is due to breathing droplets from others and keep away from people who speak without a mask. Do not wave your hand or hug. Solidarity is indicated by your presence, not your touch. Try to keep a distance of 6 feet all around you. I know it’s difficult, but there’s the real risk that these large numbers of people will get sick with COVID-19. Some sites recommend ribbons or chalks to mark your physical space when standing-do not use what is considered a weapon.

Next steps at home

When you get home, take a shower and wash your clothes.

The risk of exposure to COVID-19 was high during the protest, so plan to quarantine for 14 days. Stay home and stay at least 6 feet away from others to monitor for symptoms. Check your local or state public health department for instructions on testing for the COVID-19 virus. You should wait approximately 5 days after exposure to minimize false results.

While you’re at home, let’s look back at the experience at this important moment in history. Contact a friend or expert to unravel your thoughts and feelings for help. As you plan your next action step in the Black Lives Matter movement, you will be stronger against it.