what would I need to feel safe?

[redbird]

My hair salon sent out a survey this morning, describing the hygiene/safety procedures they are planning for when the salon reopens, and then asking whether I would be ready to come back, why or why not, and what I would need to feel safe.

There was no place to pick "maybe" for that first question, so I checked "no" and then explained that I might, if certain conditions were met. If (when) the city of Somerville thinks it's safe--they ordered hair salons closed before the state did, and are generally being more careful than the state government--and the MBTA is no longer asking us to make only essential trips, I'll think about it.

I also said that given the procedures as described, the main risk factor is customer behavior, because a lot of people's haircuts, including mine, wouldn't be possible with the client wearing a mask, whereas the person cutting your hair could do it with a mask. (Also that I'd need to switch to contactless payment, but they're set up for that already.)

If things have opened up somewhat in a month, I'll be going to Somerville to see my doctor in person, but I'm willing to take more risks for that than for the haircut. (Telemedicine is good, but I want her to examine my wrist in ways that require her to feel my hand and arm.)

Comments

[tarasacon]

I’ve been thinking about this because I am overdue for a new Rx for eyeglasses, but even though that’s a situation where both people can wear masks, I don’t feel safe with the close contact.

[dewline]

Understood. Too well.

[redbird]

As the situation has extended, I've moved from "I will get my hair cut as soon as Somerville lets them reopen" to this state of "well, maybe, but also it can wait."

Seeing pictures of the astroturf fascist rallies demanding that things be reopened with signs saying "I want a haircut" may have made a difference on this one, because the discussion of the triviality and selfishness of that -- versus "I need my job back" or "I want an eye exam" -- made me think more about whether this is important or sensible, rather than just whether it will be permitted.

[dewline]

This discussion has reminded me that I want eye care - like pharamacare, senior-care, etc. - rolled properly and fully into medicare.

As for the new fascist international's astroturf actions? Stuff that nonsense.