It’s that time of the year again; when hitherto sheltered humans become homeless and the nomads from UI settle until they’re sent packing again. The real landlords are going through a hard time, as many of them have become internally displaced persons. They don’t know it yet, but they only need to survive this phase. Those that do not lose their lives will be rewarded with lofty abodes for their struggle.
But let’s leave the landlords for now and shine a light on the temporary tenants. Are you still trying to displace the previous occupant of your room, or have you been left with a mountain of trash that you’re struggling to clear? Whether you’ve started carrying your town council luggage or you’ve only started packing in your head, one thing is certain; you’ll need plenty of health and strength in the days to come. Strength, I have none to spare, but at least I can offer you some advice to maintain your health. Here you go:
- Wash your hands
This goes without saying, so forgive me for saying it again. If you asked a first-time visitor what their first impression of the living quarters in ABH was, they would probably describe it as “grimy”. So as you attempt to make a dent in the grime, try to wash your hands as often as possible, and not just when you touch a visibly dirty surface. You do not want to pick up multi-drug resistant bacteria in your struggle to live – trust me, there are plenty of them in ABH. Also, avoid touching questionable surfaces with your bare hands. Gloves are expensive, but two pairs from the stash you’re saving for Medicine posting can go a long way. In the worst case scenario, use a nylon bag to pick up potentially infectious material.
2. Cover your nose
Thankfully, we have left Harmattan behind with its dusty winds, but with so much displacement going on, there’s plenty of dust – and other things – in the air. Cover your nose when you’re dusting surfaces, using chemicals and sweeping. This is especially important if you have allergies; you might want to wear that nose mask.
3. Mind the Landlords
Ah! The real owners of ABH. You may want to avoid them as much as you can, but the truth is, you must render them internally displaced, if you have any intention of having a semblance of comfort during your stay. DO NOT touch rats, insects, and bugs with your bare hands. This is also the time to carefully examine all the surfaces, nooks and crannies of your room for bedbugs, termites, and other insidious insects. Fumigate your room if you can, catch the rats, and pay a carpenter to proof your room against them. The carpenter’s charges may be high, but they would be nothing compared to the amount you stand to lose, if you choose to face off the landlords instead. And how can I forget to mention the invisible bugs; the superbugs? Clean all surfaces with an antibacterial solution.
4. Choose your furnishings wisely
“2 ½ bed frame for sale…4 curtains for 10k, E block rug available for 25k…”ABH is currently a market place. If you have already left the market place, this piece of advice may be late for you, but if you haven’t, lend me your ears. Pay careful attention to the furniture and furnishings you buy. If you’re buying secondhand – like many of us – ensure that you look out for bugs. Also, ensure that you wash every piece before you begin using it. If you’re allergic to dust, getting a rug will be a recipe for disaster. While you’re it, you could try to avoid getting rioting colours of furniture; a room that is pleasing to look at, will be the balm for your soul after several long school days. And of course, ensure that you’re getting solid items that can stand the test of time.
5. Chemicals
Yes, you’re trying to get rid of the bacteria, viruses, and God knows what else the previous occupants left behind. So you’re cleaning aggressively, mixing Hypo with Dettol, Omo, and Spirit. You even want to repaint the room; that drab grey is more depressing than a prison cell. Wait! Calm down! Do not touch touch corrosive chemicals with your bare hands. Do NOT mix different cleaning chemicals in the hope of increasing their action. In particular, bleach (Hypo) releases chlorine – a poisonous gas – when mixed with detergents, so stay clear. And if you paint your room, wait for it to air out properly before you begin living in it.
6. Take it easy
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs puts shelter as more important than health. This is the perfect time to disprove that theory. Lose your health in an attempt to gain shelter; I’m sure you would enjoy telling the story of how you outsmarted Maslow. On a serious note though, take things easy; break your tasks into achievable portions, and ask for help from friends. Eat well, sleep adequately and take breaks often, or you’ll break down.
In conclusion, they say a word is enough for the wise, but I already gave you half a dozen. You’re not in any way obliged to pay heed; we’re after all in the year of not greeing for anybody. But whatever you do, move with sense. I wish you luck in your stay in the Brown Hall; you’ll need plenty of it.
Aisha Ibrahim
