Schools in the UAE have been shut down for around 6 months due to Coronavirus. Now, students are gearing up to go back to school, where they will be around their peers and educators back on campus. It’s a stressful time for students – they now have to socialize with their friends while maintaining distance and making sure they’re vigilant enough to keep themselves safe as well as those around them.

We’ve put together a list of helpful reminders for students in the UAE to keep in mind as they return to classes.

1. Be mindful of your masks

Besides making sure you’re wearing your mask correctly, be mindful of where you place it if you do take it off. Setting it down on surfaces may cause the mask to pick up harmful substances.

Make sure you’re wearing protective masks with filters for maximum protection – for yours and those around you.

2. Carry a safety kit

Make your own safety kit with essentials that will help keep you safe and healthy while you’re in school. Spare face masks, hand sanitizer, antibacterial wipes, tissue and gloves are good items to have on hand with you.

3. Maintain social distance

While you may be excited to be around friends again, remember that maintaining good social distance is vital in preventing the virus from spreading further. Avoid hugging or shaking hands as much as possible!

4. Abide by safety rules

Your schools and universities have set rules to make sure that everyone stays safe. Protect yourself and those around you by following and respecting all guidelines to the best of your abilities.

5. Carry your own supplies

As much as you can, avoid borrowing stationery from your classmates. Even though they may be clean or wiped down, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

6. Pack your own food and water

Carry your own packed lunch and water bottle so that you don’t have to wait in queues during your recess period. Carrying your own packed lunch will also ensure maximum safety as your food and boxes come from your own home.

7. Keep your hands clean

Wash your hands for no little than 20 seconds when you get the chance to. If you’re unable to wash your hands, use an alcohol-based sanitizer to clean your hands as a substitute.

8. Practice good hygiene

Cover your mouth and nose with either tissues or your elbow when sneezing or coughing in order to prevent the spread of germs.