The new rules of public transport
Plane, train or bus, if you’re braving public transport there are a few things you need to keep in mind…
Words: Zoe Dickens
Been a while hasn’t it? Unless you happen to be a key worker, it’s probably been a good few months since the thought of stepping foot on a bus or train has even crossed your mind. But the time has come. Your office has reopened and, even if it’s only for a few days a week, it’s time to get to grips with negotiating the post-coronavirus commute. Here are the new rules of public transport…
If you don’t have to, don’t
Fairly simple this one – if it’s not absolutely, 100% strictly necessary that you use the bus, tube or train to get somewhere – don’t. If you only live a few miles from the office do yourself and your fellow passengers a favour and walk. You’ll also be surprised how far a bike can get you in under an hour (and, if you’re in the market, we’ve got some great bicycle suggestions here). Or maybe you can put your new found love of running to good use and get your morning jog in on the way to work? Just be sure to check your office has showers first. You don’t want to be that guy.
Wear a face mask
This should really go without saying. We may have all sniggered at the overzealous full gas mask wearers on the tube back in March but who’s laughing now? In fact, this one is so important for protecting both yourself and those around you that the government has made it mandatory to cover your mouth and nose on all forms of public transport and in private taxis. It doesn’t need to be anything fancy – even than snood from your last ski trip will do – just make sure you’re covered.
Hand sanitise regularly
Anyone’s who’s ever stepped on an un-air conditioned train in the height of summer will know that public transport is a hot bed for germs at the best of times. And, while most buses and trains remain blissfully quiet for now, you never know who touched that hand rail or sat in that seat before you – and what viruses you may be spreading as a result. Hand sanitiser is your best friend here. Use it before you buy your ticket, before you get on the train and when you step off at the other end. Yes, you’ll get through a lot of the stuff but, trust us, it’s worth it.
Maintain social distancing
We know it’s difficult on a crowded bus but your face mask is not a magic shield and the best thing you can do to protect yourself and those around you from coronavirus is to stay as far away as possible. As tempting as that seat may look after a long day, if it’s next to another passenger don’t even think about it. If the bus or train isn’t too busy try and snag a spot next to an open window but, failing that, find a quiet corner and face the side of the carriage, rather than other passengers. No-one wants to be breathed on right now.
Travel light
The Covid-19 virus can live on certain surfaces for up to three days and, the more you carry with you, the more likely you are to be carrying the virus around as well. Stick to a single briefcase or backpack and, if you can avoid opening it on public transport, do. Listen to a podcast instead of reading a book or magazine and we hope it should be fairly obvious that eating or drinking is highly unadvisable.
Most importantly, use your common sense. Just because something isn’t explicitly banned, doesn’t mean it isn’t a bad idea. If something feels unsafe or dubious, it probably is. Keep yourself to yourself and keep everyone else safe.
Having people over? Here’s how to have a socially distanced barbecue…
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