The face mask is used to prevent bacteria and virus from entering our body. Especially in these times where the corona virus is already declared to be contagious and airborne, not wearing a face mask can make the difference between life and death. Wearing a face mask is already mandatory, however many people still don’t know how to wear and use face masks.
Dos and Don’ts of Wearing a Face Mask
✓ Adjust the mask to your face without leaving gaps on the side
✓ Cover your mouth, nose and chin
✓ Wash the mask in soap or detergent, preferably with hot water, at least once a day
✓ Store the mask in a clean plastic, resealable bag if it is not dirty or wet and you plan to re-use it
✓ Clean your hands before and after touching the mask
✓ Avoid touching the mask
✓ Touch only the bands or ties when putting on and taking off your mask
X Don’t put the face covering around your neck or up on your forehead
X Do not wear the mask under the nose
X Do not remove the mask where there are people within 1 meter
X Do not use a mask that is difficult to breathe through
X Do not wear a dirty or wet mask
X Do not share your mask with others.
X Do not wear a loose mask.
How to put on a face mask
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Dry your hands with a clean paper towel and throw the paper towel away. It is recommended to dry hands with paper towel than hand dryers as hand dryers may contain bacteria and virus from the surrounding toilet.
- Check if the mask for defects such as a tear or missing tie or ear loop. If it is, throw away.
- Make sure the colored side (usually blue or green) of the mask is facing out, away from your face.
- Now is the time to decide which way is up for the face mask. Place the colored side facing away with the bendable edge on your nose.
- Follow the instructions below for the type of mask you are using.
- Face Mask with Ear loops: Hold the mask by the ear loops. Place a loop around each ear.
- Face Mask with Ties: Bring the mask to your nose level and place the ties over the crown of your head and secure with a bow. Take the bottom part and tie it around the nape of the neck.
- Face Mask with Bands: Hold the mask in your hand with the nosepiece or top of the mask at fingertips, allowing the headbands to hang freely below hands. Bring the mask to your nose level and pull the top strap over your head so that it rests over the crown of your head. Pull the bottom strap over your head so that it rests at the nape of your neck.
- After you make sure the mask is in place, use your index finger and thumb to pinch the bendable top edge of the mask around the bridge of your nose.
- Make sure the mask is completely secure. Make sure it covers your nose and mouth so that the bottom edge is under your chin.
- Wash your hands.
How to remove a face mask
- Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching the mask. Avoid touching the front of the mask as it has already been contaminated. Only touch the ear loops/ties/band.
- Follow the instructions below for the type of mask you are using.
-
- Face Mask with Ear loops: Hold both of the ear loops and gently lift and remove the mask.
- Face Mask with Ties: Untie the bottom bow first then untie the top bow and pull the mask away from you as the ties are loosened.
- Face Mask with Bands: Lift the bottom strap over your head first then pull the top strap over your head.
3. Throw the mask in the trash. Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
