How Do You Put Your Mask On?

To put on your mask correctly, you should always wash your hands before and after wearing a mask, and use the ties or loops to handle the mask.

Putting on a face mask is a key step in protecting yourself and others, based on current health guidelines. Proper technique ensures the mask is effective and reduces the risk of contamination. Handling the mask correctly by its designated ties or loops prevents touching the potentially contaminated front surface.

Step-by-Step Guide to Wearing a Mask

Follow these simple steps to ensure your mask is put on properly and safely:

1. Prepare Your Hands

Before touching your mask, it's crucial to ensure your hands are clean.

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Alternatively, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• This step aligns directly with the guidance: Always wash your hands before and after wearing a mask.

2. Inspect the Mask

Check your mask for any visible tears or holes. Do not use a damaged mask.

3. Position the Mask

• Hold the mask by its ties or loops. Avoid touching the main body of the mask.
• This handling method is essential, as per the reference: Use the ties or loops to put your mask on and pull it off.

4. Secure the Mask

The method for securing depends on the type of mask:

• For masks with ear loops: Hold the mask by the loops and place one loop over each ear.
• For masks with ties: Bring the mask to your nose and mouth and secure the ties behind your head. Usually, the top ties go around the crown of your head, and the bottom ties go behind your neck.

5. Adjust for Fit

Ensure the mask covers your nose, mouth, and chin completely.

• Adjust the nose piece if there is one (usually a metal strip) to conform to the shape of your nose bridge.
• Make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.

Key Actions for Mask Application

Here is a quick overview of the critical actions:

By following these steps, you can effectively put on your mask while minimizing the risk of contamination, starting with clean hands and using the proper handling points as referenced.