Face masks: how to wear them and ‘have fun’

Polowski said people were certainly complying by wearing a mask but she’s noticed some who are leaving their nose exposed.

“I just think there needs to be more information because people just assume everyone knows how to wear a mask,” she said.

The province’s website offers instructions on the do’s and don’ts of mask-wearing. A key element is ensuring it covers the mouth and nose.

Mask wearing tips (website/Government of Saskatchewan)

Meanwhile, some businesses, especially smaller independent ones, would rather not have to appear heavy-handed toward customers amid the new regulations, according to Carolyn Carleton with the Prince Albert Downtown Business Improvement District (PADBID).

“[The businesses] want to stay open and serve the public, and they’re excited people are choosing to shop local,” Carleton said. “But it all has to be done in a safe manner that’s good for everyone now the numbers in Prince Albert are increasing.”

The subtleties of enforcement

Carleton said PADBID had ordered signs that will be offered to small businesses for owners to put up on their doors or floors, reminding customers they must wear a face mask, but in a polite way.

“The business don’t want to feel like they’re coming across as being heavy – ‘you have to wear a mask if you want to shop in my store,’ – then they’re going to lose business,” she said.

She added one example where business owners were seeking guidance was offering customers the choice to wear a face shield if they can not wear a face mask, for medical reasons for example.

(website/Government of Saskatchewan)

However, the province says face shields are not a substitute for masks and they should not be used in place of masks.

Have some fun

The P.A. and District Chamber of Commerce has supported the government’s decision to increase the scope of mandatory face masks and applauded the moves to not implement any shutdowns of the economy. CEO Elise Hildebrandt said ensuring public education around mask-wearing is important, admitting she, like so many others, was still getting used to wearing one.

“I find I play with mine a lot, trying to get it under my glasses and around my ears and all the rest of it,” she said.

The proper way to wear a mask is to not touch it once it’s on and to ensure proper hand-washing every time it’s removed or put back on.

While Hildebrandt stressed she was not trivializing the seriousness of the now mandatory face masks, she also encouraged people to lighten up and have some fun with them.

“Accessorize… if we have to wear them, let’s have some fun with them. Support local business who are bringing them in, wear different ones, and make it part of what you’re wearing that day.”

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glenn.hicks@jpbg.ca

On Twitter:@princealbertnow

by Glenn Hicks

Face masks: how to wear them and ‘have fun’

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