Recently designated as a global pandemic, the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is already disrupting our daily lives and is expected to continue to do so in the weeks and even months ahead. In addition to worrying about the health and safety of family and friends, people are also rightfully concerned about their financial wellbeing. While these fears are natural, there’s good news, too: There are some steps you can take to stay safe and prepared through this public health crisis.

Read on for four tips aimed at helping you stay safe and sound — both physically and financially — during the coronavirus pandemic.

• Stay home unless it’s absolutely necessary to venture out.

  The data makes it very clear: The more people commit themselves to limiting their contact with others by staying home, the quicker we’ll be able to stop the spread of the disease in order to minimize sickness and loss of life.
  
  While you may think it’s not a big deal to run out to the store or to the playground, the coronavirus is extremely contagious and durable. In fact, it can live on some surfaces for up to three days. Your best chance of avoiding it is to practice social distancing by staying home where you know with 100 percent certainty that you will not be exposed to the virus.
  
  In addition to safeguarding your health, this is also a wise financial move. The less you’re out and about, the less money you spend on everything from the trip through the Starbucks drive-through to gasoline.

• Cook your own meals using what you’ve got.

  If you’re like most people, you’ve probably got abundant cans on your shelves and casseroles in your freezer. Before running to the grocery store to stock up, consider what you’ve got on hand and how you can use it.
  
  For some great ideas, check out Food Network’s roundup of easy pantry recipes. From black-eyed pea soup to chocolate-pretzel cereal treats, most of these can be whipped up with just a handful of basic ingredients you’ve probably already got in your pantry or fridge.

• Resist the urge to stockpile.

  We’ve all heard about stores running out of everything from toilet paper to meat. Unfortunately, hoarding food and supplies during emergency situations is not only unnecessary, but also costly. After all, buying a year’s supply of toilet paper can be a budget-breaking endeavor.
  
  Not to mention that it’s a vicious cycle: The more people stockpile and hoard, the less is available for people who need it. So even though you may feel pressure to load up your cart at the grocery store, keep a level head and buy only what you will need and use.

• Make your own hand sanitizer.

  One of the biggest defenses against coronavirus is practicing proper hygiene, including handwashing and hand sanitizing. However, not only is it hard to find hand sanitizer in stores at the moment, but price gouging can also be a problem. We’ve got a simple solution: Instead of wasting time (and gas) driving around looking for hand sanitizer, make your own using this two to three ingredient recipe.
  
  An added bonus? Your concoction won’t be full of toxic chemicals. And you can even use essential oil to make it in the scent of your choice. Our pick — especially if you’re feeling stress or anxiety? Lavender, rose, or jasmin.

To say these are uncertain times is an understatement. However, following these tips and maintaining a positive outlook can help you weather the challenges ahead during this unprecedented event.