Hand made or disposable face masks can provide a layer of protection against the spread of germs when used along with social distancing. However, it is important to properly put on, wear, and remove your mask to avoid cross-contamination.
How to safely wear a mask
Put on the mask
- Clean hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching your mask.
- Hold the mask by the loops. Place the loop around each ear.
- For a mask with ties, hold each string. Bring masks to your face covering your mouth and nose. Then tie it behind your head.
- Secure the mask above your nose and below your chin.
Wear the mask
- You must wear a mask while in an RWJBarnabas Health facility and you should also wear a mask anytime you are in a public area where people will be.
- Avoid touching the mask while you are wearing it. If you do, clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
- Maintain a distance of 6 feet between you and others.
Remove the mask
- Clean hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching the mask.
- Avoid touching the front of the mask (the front of the mask may be contaminated).
- When removing your mask, untie or hold both ear loops to gently lift and remove the mask. Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Wash your mask immediately (cloth mask only). If you are using a disposable face mask, be sure to properly put your mask in a waste bin.
- Wash your hands.
- Only wear clean masks. If your mask is hand made, it’s a good idea to have a few extra that you can rotate.
Caution! The following people should NOT wear a cloth mask:
- Children under 2
- People who have trouble breathing
- Anyone who is unconscious
- People who cannot remove the mask on their own
- Healthcare workers should use extreme caution when using hand made face masks
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