Americans call 911 because of toilet paper: why do they need it so much during the coronavirus

The Oregon Police Department asks people not to call emergency services if they run out of toilet paper. Writes about this Fox News.

Photo: Shutterstock

The Newport City Police Department (NPD) posted on its Facebook page that shoppers across the country flock to supermarkets to stock up on toilet paper and food in the midst of a coronavirus pandemic.

“It's hard to believe we even have to publish this. Don't call 911 just because you're out of toilet paper. You will survive without our help,” NPD writes.

The department then proposed numerous alternatives if people cannot find their “favorite soft, ultra-plush, two-ply citrus scented toilet paper”.

“There are always alternatives to toilet paper. Food receipts, newspapers, rags, cotton swabs, the message says. “Also, there are many leaves that you can safely use. When all else fails, you have journal pages. Start saving those catalogs that you receive in the mail that you usually throw in the trash. Be resourceful. There is a shortage of toilet paper. This too shall pass. Just don't call 911. We can't bring you toilet paper."

On the subject: What happens in the body after infection with coronavirus: step by step

Many aspects of life have changed due to the spread of coronavirus. Over the past weeks, empty shelves in grocery stores have become commonplace. Some stores began to apply restrictions on sales of goods per person.

Why is toilet paper so popular during the coronavirus epidemic?

“Toilet paper symbolizes control,” explains Nicky Edwards, Queensland University of Technology lecturer in public health and social work, writes with the BBC.

“When people hear about coronavirus, they are afraid of losing control, and toilet paper seems like a way to at least ensure hygiene and cleanliness,” she says.

There are a lot of empty shelves wherever I go. It pushes me past my breaking point.? #coronavirusuk #CoronavirusOutbreak #panickbuying #nofood pic.twitter.com/pZdlRD7dxp

- mvan (@mkt_van) March 17, 2020

For people, toilet paper is an element of control and safety, agrees Dr Brian Cook from the University of Melbourne.

“For Westerners, there is a so-called ‘fu-effect’ when it comes to hygiene without using toilet paper,” he explains. “Plus, people like to feel like they are ‘doing something’ when they feel threatened.”

My mate just sent me this video of people going mad for toilet rolls. #panickbuying
pic.twitter.com/QaSl3ZYDzg
via FrankKhalidUK#VoteBlueNoMatterWho

- Tomthunkit ™ (@TomthunkitsMind) March 14, 2020

There is a more pragmatic factor, Cook adds, many use toilet paper instead of handkerchiefs during colds.

In addition, toilet paper clearly belongs to products that do not deteriorate, and therefore they can really be stocked up, says Dr. David Savedzhi from the University of Newcastle.

"I don't know for sure, but I suspect that most people only buy toilet paper when they're running low, which could be a problem if you have to isolate for two weeks."

Social Media Response

The reaction of users of social networks was not long in coming. Hashtags and #panickbuying and #ToiletPaperPanic quickly became quite popular, and there were some funny memes.

My reaction seeing people fighting over #ToiletPaperPanic while # COVID19 pic.twitter.com/RZKQ2xWAO3

- Armel Oenn (@OennArts) March 14, 2020

Also in social networks publish a video where people fight for the latest packaging of toilet paper in the store.

Ozzy man reviews #panickbuying ?

pic.twitter.com/qBT5SWA7nj

— Ffs OMG Vids?? (@Ffs_OMG) March 8, 2020

Users also do not miss the chance to laugh at the fact that people consider the lack of toilet paper an emergency.

So that's where all the toilet paper went #ToiletPaperPanic pic.twitter.com/2YrldnMP05

— LaurenNYknicks??? (@AaliyahNevaeh7) March 15, 2020

Read also on ForumDaily:

'Humanity will survive': a Nobel laureate explained why you should not panic because of a coronavirus

What happens in the body after infection with coronavirus: step by step

Why do Americans buy weapons and ammunition during the coronavirus pandemic?

Cultural activities during quarantine: how to visit the best museums and theaters without leaving your home

Financial collapse: how much the coronavirus pandemic will cost the world

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