The Journal has observed many people in the parish wearing their masks improperly, meaning the mask is not being effective.  The situation is not limited to Red River.  We sought the advice of medical professionals on proper use of the mask to protect yourself and others.  Here is that information:

How do we wear a mask?

There are two common types of mask available locally at this time.

One type uses ties which go around your head and neck.

The other uses elastic which goes around your ears.

Tie-on mask

If you choose the one with ties:

The first tie goes around your head,
about where a baseball cap would fit.

The second tie goes under your ears
and around your neck.

How to put it on:

Fasten it on (ties or loops)

Form the nose portion around your nose. There may be a piece of wire embedded in the mask to do this.

Put your hands on your cheeks, where the mask now sits and take a few deep breaths in and out. Push the mask against your cheeks so the air “wants to” go out front and not out the sides.

DON’T TOUCH THE MASK THERE ANYMORE. That’s where the germs should end up.

How NOT to wear it.

Before you finish putting it on:

Are your ears mashed out, hurting already, turning red, otherwise uncomfortable?

Something’s wrong!

Ask for help from someone with experience, there may be simple solutions.

You won’t want to wear the mask as long as needed or keep your hands off (next step).

AND

Can you see clearly over it and through your glasses?

If the air is coming out of your nose and mouth through the mask (and not up beside your nose) you should not fog up your glasses (for very long).

And even more important

Don’t wear the mask over only your mouth. Keep your nose covered also. Otherwise you are breathing in concentrated germs that the mask is supposed to keep out.

For the same reason, don’t let the mask dangle under your chin after you have breathed through it.

But, most important

Keep your hands off the front of the mask

Once you have breathed through it

And at all times afterward.

That’s where the germs are!

When do you take it off?

When you get in your personal bubble-space (with no “strangers” in it)

Family home

Family vehicle

Personal office

When you get outside,

In the daylight

More than 6 feet from “strangers”

So, how do you take it off?

Wash your hands

Untie the ties or unloop the loops from your ears

Turn the mask inside out

Throw it in a trash bag

Wash your hands.

This article was composed by Dawn Brewer, RN.  She has 40 years’ experience as a Registered Nurse with a Master Degree in Pediatric Nursing Education.  She has also been an instructor of health careers including CNA in Red River Schools.

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