Residents in Metropolitan Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire will soon be required to wear face coverings in public or risk a fine, as Victoria extends its state of emergency by another four weeks.
The new rule will come into effect from 11:59pm on Wednesday, and the fine for not wearing one will be $200.
Premier Daniel Andrews said “common sense” would guide the new rules and people would not be required to wear one when it was impractical, such as when actively jogging or visiting a bank.
So how do I use a mask properly?
The Federal Government recommends you follow these steps:
1. Wash your hands before putting on the mask
2. Make sure it covers your nose and mouth and fits snugly under your chin, over the bridge of your nose and against the sides of your face.
3. Do not touch the front of the mask while it is on or when removing it (and if you do so accidentally, wash or clean your hands immediately)
4. Wash your hands after removing the mask
The Victorian Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) also says you should make sure your mask:
1. Fits securely around the face, specifically covering the nose and mouth areas
2. Is secured with ties at the back of the head or ear loops
3. Make sure it doesn’t have holes or a valve
4. Allows for breathing without restriction
5. Can be laundered and machine dried without
damage or changes to its shape (cloth masks should be routinely washed in a washing machine)