During the worlds COVID-19 pandemic it is a very daunting and unknown time for everyone. With social media and the news, it can be very difficult to know the best ways to keep yourself and the members within your household safe. We have shared 10 top tips to help keep you and your family safe during this time. 

1. Ensure you wash your hands regularly– Keep on washing your hands, this is a key safety measure. By washing your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds will help to clean any bacteria off your hands. If water and soap is not available, consider using antibacterial wash or wipes. 
2. Clean down any work or home surfaces – Use soap or disinfectant to wipe down any surfaces that you may be working on whether that being at home or away.
3. Practice social distancing – Try to stay at least 2 meters apart from people that you may come into contact with outside the members living in your household. Avoid hugging people and consider postponing social meetings with friends and family.
4. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze – Keep your mouth and nose covered and wash your hands immediately after. 
5. Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes – Try not to touch your face especially if you have not washed your hands.
6. Stay home – Where possible, stay home to avoid going outside and mixing with other people. There are many games and activities you can play at home with your children to help keep them occupied. 
7. Follow the government health guidelines – The government are keeping the general public up to date daily with TV and news announcements. 
8. Keep fit and healthy – Keep your immune system boosted with regular exercise and ensure you are keeping regularly hydrated and eating healthy foods.
9. Try to stay calm – In addition to your physical health, you should also take care of your mental health. High stress levels can take a toll on your immune system, there are many useful websites and blogs to help with stress. 
10. If you or a family member is feeling unwell, isolate yourselves – By isolating yourselves at home if a family member is feeling unwell will help to reduce the risk of anything spreading further. If symptoms get worse or do not get better within 7 days, seek medical advice. 

Your child or young person may have many questions about the coronavirus, try to keep the information you share with them simple and useful. Highlight the importance of taking safety precautions. Offer reassurance to them that they can come and speak to you about any worries or concerns that they may have.