The ongoing nationwide curfew, which was imposed on Saturday, is set to remain in force until further notice from the government. Members of the Bangladesh Army have been on the highest alert to prevent any untoward situation, and citizens have been asked to stay at home unless there is a medical emergency.
In times like this, there are some essential items, other than food, that you can keep helping your day-to-day life go smoother.
Medical essentials
Orsaline and medication for pain relief (Napa, paracetamol), gas, and nausea should be kept at all houses. Band aids, sanitary napkins, antiseptic creams, ointment for burns, and thermometers are a must as well.
Cash at hand
As the banks are closed and there is a nationwide internet outage preventing digital financial transactions, it is essential to keep cash at hand. Most shops that open in the two- or three-hour break during the curfew do not accept debit or credit cards at the moment. Furthermore, as we mostly go to the kitchen markets or local street vendors for our daily needs, it is better to carry cash rather than using any digital payment methods.
Household items
There are reports that show the power to hundreds of houses that fall under Desco was cutoff as customers failed to pay their bills due to the curfew and internet outage. The users complained that they could not access the mobile financial services (MIFs) to pay their dues on time.
So, for cases like this, or possible loadshedding, keeping rechargeable lights and table fans can come in handy. Other than that, restocking candles, mosquito coils, tissue paper, and disinfectants is also a good idea.
Entertainment
Living in the 21st century, we depend on the internet for all kinds of entertainment. Starting from social media, to movies, TV shows, music and even books - everything was right in the palms of our hands.
Now, due to the ongoing outage, such entertainment options are not available. So, if you're someone who likes to read, keep good books, magazines, and newspapers at your home.
If you have any hobbies, this is also the perfect time to master them. Watching or rewatching old movies or TV shows is also a great way to spend time.
Also, the next time you go out, buy some board games such as UNO, Ludo, or Monopoly to play with your family and friends. You never know when you will get back a time like this when everyone is at home.
Emergency numbers
Keep the phone numbers of ambulances, nearby hospitals, fire service and the police for any kind of emergency that may arrive.