Summary: As states and businesses start to reopen slowly and carefully, people will undoubtedly start asking the question: is it safe to travel? Travel could increase the chances of getting infected and spreading the virus, especially when visiting locations with a higher number of cases. Find out what common COVID-19 safety tips travellers can keep in mind. Staying home has been one of the safest methods in reducing the spread of COVID-19; stay at home and shelter in place orders were implemented across the country over the last few months for this very reason. However, as states and businesses start to reopen slowly and carefully, people will undoubtedly start asking the question: is it safe to travel?
Whether the trip is for business or pleasure, staying safe and healthy should remain top of mind for anyone with plans to travel from their local community in the next few months.
How to Travel Safely During the Coronavirus Outbreak
The CDC still
urges individuals to stay home as a means of staying protected from COVID-19. Travel can increase the chances of getting infected and spreading the virus, especially when visiting locations with a higher number of cases. Also, individuals who have COVID-19 or symptoms of the virus should remain home until they are
no longer considered infectious.
Highly trafficked travel locations like airports, bus stations and rest stops can easily expose travelers to the coronavirus. It can be challenging to practice social distancing as crowds congregate together in waiting areas, and surfaces like door handles, restroom faucets and handrails may not be cleaned and disinfected as often as necessary.
If your summer plans involve traveling for an important business meeting or a beach getaway, there are things you can do to protect yourself. Common COVID-19 safety tips apply to travel, including:
Check locations on your itinerary
Before leaving for your trip, check the CDC’s website for
travel restrictions and recommendations. The CDC also has data about
COVID-19 cases in the United States so you can make an informed decision regarding whether it’s safe to travel to your destination. This can be especially critical if you have an elevated risk of contracting the virus. You should also make sure you understand if any post-travel quarantine is required to help slow the spread.
Practice good hygiene
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or bring a hand sanitizer with you that contains at least 60% alcohol. Keeping your hands clean is one of the best defenses against the virus. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands at all times. Wipe down surfaces you’ll touch Airlines, buses and other forms of public transportation have increased their cleaning and sanitation efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it’s still a good idea to bring along your own antibacterial wipes to clean surfaces like armrests, tray tables, seats, headrests, windows, handrails, etc. for added peace of mind. Also, consider bringing along toothpicks to touch elevator buttons and ATM buttons without using your hands.
Wear a face covering and keep your distance
A cloth
face mask provides an extra layer of protection to keep respiratory droplets from becoming airborne from infected individuals, even for those who may not be feeling ill or showing any symptoms. Additionally, follow social distancing rules and, whenever possible, try to avoid crowded areas to allow at least six feet of space between yourself and others.
Get updated travel information frequently
Up until your scheduled departure time, stay abreast of up-to-date information regarding travel and your destination. The U.S. State Department offers the latest information, advice and
travel advisories for international trips.
Hotel Safety During the Coronavirus
If your trip involves a hotel stay, you might be wondering how safe you’ll be. The hospitality industry has always made cleaning a top priority, but in the wake of the coronavirus, even stricter guidelines have been set in place to ensure the health and safety of the guests.
For instance, Hilton created a program called
Hilton CleanStay, which builds upon the hotel chain’s already high standards of housekeeping that utilizes hospital-grade cleaning products and protocols. They’ve partnered with Lysol to create the program that includes extra disinfection of high touch areas in rooms, increased cleaning in public areas and offering cleaning wipes for guests at entrances and more. Another essential feature of the program is the Hilton CleanStay seal, which indicates rooms that have not been accessed after cleaning.
Additionally, the
American Hotel and Lodging Association launched an initiative called Safe Stay to meet the new health and safety challenges and expectations the coronavirus pandemic presents to the industry. The program helps the hotel industry understand how to ensure guest health and safety by following guidelines from the CDC.
The protocol may vary among hotel brands, but guests can expect to see some of the same adjustments being implemented in
retail stores and
restaurants to help keep them safe, especially in highly-trafficked areas. For instance, guests will notice social distancing measures, with markings on the floors to direct them where to stand and keep the flow of traffic moving. Hand sanitizer will be available at entrances and common areas, and public spaces will have reduced capacities. Additionally, the hotel’s breakfast buffet may become a thing of the past, with prepackaged “grab and go” options available to guests instead.
AmTrust is Here for Our Small Business Insureds
AmTrust is
here to help with an array of tips,
coronavirus resources and more to ensure our small business insureds stay informed, safe and healthy as they prepare to reopen their doors. For more information about our small
business insurance solutions, please
contact us today.
This material is for informational purposes only and is not legal, tax or business advice. Neither AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates represents or warrants that the information contained herein is accurate, appropriate or suitable for any specific business, tax or legal purpose. Readers seeking resolution of specific questions should consult their business, tax and/or legal advisors. Coverages may vary by location. Contact your local RSM for more information.