Being on the frontlines, and carrying all the supplies for the country, we have an extremely important role in fighting this disaster.
Being on the defense team not only puts a much needed spotlight on our industry, but it also begs the question, are we as drivers doing all we can to prevent the spreading of the virus?
I’ve decided to write this article in hopes that it spreads awareness to all drivers about the role we play in not only delivering relief, but also in preventing putting ourselves and others at risk. We have a great responsibility to take extra precautions while traveling so that we continue trying to contain this thing.
Some of us are more at risk than others; this is already well known. Though I believe it is important to recognize the vast number of drivers who already have pre-existing health conditions. (stats)
We should be especially mindful of these drivers, because I know some of them are still out here with us on the road. A big thank you to you guys for putting your safety on the line for your family, and all those who need you in this country.
Alright, now that my welcome speech is over, what can we do to help?
1. Wash Your Hands A LOT!
Now, you’ve heard this time, and time again. I’m going to say it a lot more in the coming days. Repetition is key people!
When you wash them, do so thoroughly. Here is an awesome video to help you know what is “good enough”.
I’m especially proud of the men and women speaking up in the restrooms about people not washing their hands. You guys are heroes! We know some of you need extra convincing sometimes.
Just do it!
2. Be Mindful Of What You Touch
We should all be aware by now that this virus lingers on surfaces. For that reason you should take extra care in avoiding touching anything that isn’t necessary.
We are known to pick up several items in contemplation before buying them. For now, try to contemplate if you want something before picking up. So, think before picking up that bag of chips, or opening that refrigerator door to the beverages.
Think, aim, and then execute. Don’t touch a million things in the truck stop. You are only increasing your chances of exposure.
3. Stay AWAY From Truck Stops
Yes.
You heard me right.
Stay away from those truck stops as much as you can. We all know you guys pee on the side of the road anyways, so keep doing it. This is probably the one, and only time you will ever hear me mention this.
I’m also referring to meal times. Don’t stop to eat-out if you can avoid it. This brings me to my next point.
4. Avoid Eating Out
Yes, I know we have a hard time eating on the road, but guess what? If you get sick with this thing, you won’t have to worry about eating on the road much longer, or possibly ever again!
Take this seriously! Take this as if your life, or your loved one’s lives depended on it, because it most certainly could!
The stats are showing most people don’t know they have the virus before it’s too late, and they have potentially spread it to others.
With that being said, maybe you should consider that the people making and serving your food may not be ALL CLEAR. Just something to keep in mind.
Here are some tips and ideas for easy meals to get you by. I’m listing a few, so if you can’t find some items you may be able to find some others. This is also a list for those who don’t have an inverter, or cooking supplies on their truck (which is my current situation). You can use the microwave in the truck stop if you have to.
- Canned Soup
- PB and J
- Ready Rice
- Canned Veggies
- Canned Beans
- Quick Oats
- Quick Grits
- Bagged Mashed Potato
- Ramen
- Nuts and Dried Fruit
- Fresh Fruit (Bananas, Oranges, Kiwis, Apples etc.)
5. Avoid Being Near ANYONE (Especially Other Drivers)
This became especially apparent to me the other day when I was at a popular bump (swapping trailers with another driver) location. All of the drivers were actively confused with who was swapping with who, and walking around in packs to other trucks. One guy even took my paperwork, and ran away with it.
For a solution, I propose coordinating with the other driver, either through personal communication, through cell phone, or through your dispatch, to agree on a method of swapping trailers and paperwork.
I like to personally stick my paperwork on the seven-way plug port of the trailer, and use the cap to hold it down. That way I have dropped my set, and effectively transferred the load and papers to the other driver without having to ever come in contact with another person.
If you have to get near someone, remember to use the 6-feet rule, because the virus can linger in air.
6. Wipe Down Your Truck FREQUENTLY
With the lifespan of this virus on specific surfaces, it is important to take extra care of your living quarters. You are quite confined to them, and need to keep them as clean as possible during this time.
Tidy up a little more often, and wipe down your steering wheel like it has the plague!
7. STAY AWAY From Your Friends And Family.
For many drivers, this means avoiding going home, which can not only take a toll on your heart, but also your mental well being.
We have to look out for the safety of those that mean the most to us, which can be the hardest part of our job!
Use apps, like Skype and Face Time, to help you stay connected, and get that face-to-face interaction without putting your loved ones in danger. We all know this is not as nice as physically connecting with someone, but it is a sacrifice we have to make.
We are all in this together. We honestly don’t have much of a choice, so let’s work together to get passed this!
Stay safe, and don’t touch your face!
Roll on my friends,
Shelby
