The introduction of the Circuit Breaker Measures in relationship to controlling the Covid-19 pandemic has changed the way we live, the way we work and the way we interact with each other. Singapore, just like the rest of the world, has embraced social distancing. This means you’ll need to do a couple of things to enhance your own safety and that of others.
Here’s a quick overview of the measures and the best ways to maintain your lifestyle while social distancing is lasting.
Social Distancing and Perfect Hygiene
The recommendations introduced under the Circuit Breaker Measures are divided in two main categories – social distancing and the maintenance of perfect hygiene.
For a start, you must refrain from meeting others and socialising with others not in the same household. Leaving home is not recommended, unless you have to get essentials – food and medication for example. These measures are especially important for at-risk groups like the elderly and those suffering from respiratory problems.
Under the Circuit Breaker Measures, Singaporeans are allowed to visit elderly family members and those dependent on them for care and assistance. Exercise is allowed parks, as long as individuals maintain a distance of at least one metre between themselves.
You’re not allowed to attend gatherings or dine out in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Safety and personal hygiene measures include wearing a mask every time you have to go out or if you’re the provider of essential services. Hand washing, sanitisation and disinfection are also included among the key measures to reduce the risk of an infection.
Observing distance from other people when you walk or wait in line, for example is also key. There should be at least one metre between you and another person.
Shopping, Going to the Market and Meal Prep
During the circuit breaker period, you’ll need to follow a couple of other important guidelines.
At hawker centres, you’ll get to enjoy only take-aways and food deliveries. Dining out will not be possible over the course of the social distancing period. You will also need to bring your own container when using such services.
The rules to follow at markets are also a few. For a start, buy only what you need. Stocking up on essentials is not recommended.
If possible, try to avoid peak periods when larger gatherings of people occur. Anyone who is an elderly person should do their best to avoid going to the market. Since the elderly are one of the most vulnerable groups in terms of Covid-19 infections and their complications, younger family members should do their best to offer deliveries and assistance.
At the time being, penalties and sanctions are introduced for non-compliance with these measures.
There are fines starting at 300 dollars for first-time offenders and growing with repeat violations. Personnel in food establishments who do not wear masks and face shields while working can be fined up to 5,000 dollars and they can also get professional licenses cancelled.
Making the Most of the Social Distancing Period
Getting to spend more time at home during the social distancing period can actually give you opportunities to reconnect with loved ones, work on your passions/hobbies and enjoy new things.
Digital technologies make it almost effortless to connect with the people you love, regardless of their location. There are numerous video streaming solutions you can use for free. Do check in with each other on a regular basis and you’re not going to experience a significant level of isolation.
If you have stubborn older relatives, do work patiently on getting them to spend more time home. It’s really important for everybody’s safety to limit social contact. Kindness and perseverance can give you pretty good results.
The same applies to online shopping for the essentials and the supplies required to maintain your comfort – groceries, grooming and personal hygiene items, clothes, books, etc.
Let Your Meals Be Catered By Us
Professional catering in Singapore will give you access to delicious meals that are prepared in adherence with the strictest safety criteria aimed at combatting the spread of Covid-19.
Eatz Catering’s Covid-19 safety measures, for example, include the regular temperature checking of all our staff, meticulous hygiene, the use of personal protection like masks and gloves, close monitoring of all staff members and a focus on the latest WHO guidelines for the eradication of the virus.
During this period we have also prepared a few options for you and your family, or if your company is part of the essential services workforce:
- Super deal bentos for as low as $6/pax with minimum order of 4 Sets for delivery. Suitable for your weekly meal plan with Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Snack and Dinner menus available. NO REPEATED menu from Monday to Sunday. FREE DELIVERY to Chai Chee, Marine Parade, Bedok, Tampines, Changi North, South & Changi Business Park Area-
- New and improved bento sets starting at $3.50 per bento with minimum order.
- Value Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner meals starting at $2.50 – Create your own menu with our Value Packed Meals for only $3/pax Minimum 80 packets with free delivery. Vegetarian options also available upon request Suitable for our Covid 19 Front-liners and essential services workers and those who are serving Stay-Home Notice.
These menus have been specially tailored to the needs of our clients over the course of the circuit breaker period. Check out our website here for the latest updates and also here for the full menu.
Additional Resources
The situation changes dynamically and it’s important to keep up with governmental measures and recommendations.
We’ve compiled a list of useful resources you can rely on for accurate and timely information:
- Ministry of Health Singapore, Covid-19 page: https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19
- The Singapore Government Covid-19 page: https://www.gov.sg/features/covid-19, you can also receive WhatsApp updates on the go: https://www.form.gov.sg/5e33fa3709f80b00113b6891
- The Covid-19 infobot that can answer some of your most common questions: https://www.gov.sg/infobot
- A list of PHPC clinics near you: https://www.flugowhere.gov.sg/
- A thorough Covid-19 online symptom checker: https://sgcovidcheck.gov.sg/
- TraceTogether anti-Covid-19 app: https://www.tracetogether.gov.sg/
- Budgetary measures and financial assistance for businesses stemming from the pandemic: https://www.singaporebudget.gov.sg/budget_2020
- Discover how crowded public spaces are before going out: https://www.spaceout.gov.sg/ and here: http://safedistparks.nparks.gov.sg/
Finally, you can call the Ministry of Health hotline (1800 333 9999) to make a specific Covid-19 inquiry or you can get in touch with the National Care hotline at 6202 6868 to address the stress and anxiety stemming from the pandemic.
We hope you stay safe, healthy and strong during this challenging period. And we also know that this too shall pass. While social distancing lasts, however, we’ve made it our mission to serve you in the best way possible and help you distance yourself in line with all current governmental guidelines.