Many local stores are working to keep customers safe while they are doing their essential shopping amidst the COVID-19 pandemic,from installing barriers between customers and cashiers, to restricting the number of customers in a store at one time.

Representatives from the Sequim Emergency Coordination Center offer shopping etiquette guidelines:

• Do not shop in large groups; many stores recommend no more than one to two customers per cart

• Limit your trips to the store by buying a week’s worth of perishable items at a time instead of shopping daily

• Maintain social distancing while shopping by keeping a 6-foot distance between other customers

• Wash your hands before and after visiting the store

• Sanitize the handhold of the shopping cart before use

• Try not to touch too much in the store

• Many customers are wearing a cloth mask when shopping to protect other customers (Note: This is a voluntary decision and is not required. Remember that wearing a cloth mask does not replace the necessity for social distancing and proper hygiene)

• Don’t go into any public place if you have symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, cold/flu like symptoms or a low-grade fever.

• Do not over purchase. The supply chain is intact and there is no reason to buy more than what is needed to ensure all members of the community have access to food and supplies.