WHY WEAR A FACE MASK

Consistently wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth, washing your hands, and practicing physical distancing will help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community and save lives. When all of us wear masks, we protect each other. Wearing a mask is not just about keeping ourselves safe, it’s about keeping everyone safe -- at work, in the community, and at home. Wearing a mask sends a visual signal that you understand the importance of physical distancing and following healthy behaviors.

FACE MASKS SLOW THE SPREAD OF THE VIRUS

Wearing a face mask helps to prevent the virus from entering the air where it can be inhaled by others. Masks trap the virus droplets in their fibers. When combined with physical distancing and frequent hand washing, face masks help prevent people from unknowingly spreading the virus. Wearing a mask properly can act as a conscious reminder not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.

WHEN TO WEAR A FACE MASK

Make it a habit to wear a face mask every time you leave home, and especially when you may come into contact with others. You never know when you will stop to talk to a neighbor or delivery person, or pass a jogger. Although you may think it is easy to keep six feet from others outside, it’s not always possible. Keep your pouch of masks on hand as much as possible, keep one in your handbag, your car and your carry on luggage.

THE BEST KIND OF MASK

The best mask is one you will wear properly. It should be comfortable and cover the nose and the chin without slipping. A double layer of woven fabric will catch almost all respiratory droplets. Disposable masks are also an option, but they should be thrown away after use, which is adding to landfill and perpetuating the environmental issues . Unless you are a front-line health care worker, you do not need a medical grade N95 mask.

MASK ETTIQUETTE

A cloth mask should be washed and dried after each use. Because the virus cannot live for more than a week on cloth surfaces, an alternative is to make or buy seven masks -- one for each day of the week. Wash your hands before you take your mask off. Use the straps or elastic bands to remove it; then wash your hands again. This practice helps to guard against spreading contamination from your hands or the mask to your face.

LOOK AFTER EACH OTHER

Wearing a mask is a way to show support for everyone else in our community. Lead by example by wearing one. You want to be visibly someone who's respectful of others around you. We are in this together, let's look after each other.