Safely Wear and Remove Face Coverings
As the city of Mobile, Alabama and other cities around the country implement face mask ordinances, the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC) gives reminder tips for you and your family of how to safely wear and washcloth face masks. For more information, click here.
How to Safely Wear and Take Off a Cloth Face Covering
Wear Your Face Covering Correctly
- Wash your hands before putting on your face covering
- Put it over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin
- Try to fit it snugly against the sides of your face
- Make sure you can breathe easily
- Do not place a mask on a child younger than 2
USE THE FACE COVERING TO HELP PROTECT OTHERS
- Wear cloth face coverings in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain
- Don’t put the covering around your neck or upon your forehead
- Don’t touch the face covering, and, if you do, clean your hands
Follow Everyday Health Habits
- Stay at least 6 feet away from others
- Avoid contact with people who are sick
- Wash your hands often, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds each time
- Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available
Take Off Your Cloth Face Covering Carefully, When You’re Home
- Untie the strings behind your head or stretch the ear loops
- Handle only by the ear loops or ties
- Fold outside corners together
- Place covering in the washing machine
- Wash your hands with soap and water
Cloth face coverings are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators, both of which should be saved for health care workers and other medical first responders. For instructions on making a cloth face covering, see: cdc.gov/coronavirus.
