D.I.Y. Individual Protection

This information is not intended for medical use. The goal of this web page is to share knowledge about effective construction and tutorials for the general public about creating personal safety protection, such as cloth masks and ear guards.

Should you wear a mask?

As of July 13, 2020 the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit mandated the requirement of face coverings in all indoor publicly accessible spaces (businesses, organizations and public transit systems) in Simcoe County and the District of Muskoka. Learn more.

Health Canada is advising the public, as well as healthcare professionals on important considerations for the use of homemade masks to protect against the transmission of COVID-19. Wearing a facial covering/non-medical mask in the community has not been proven to protect the person wearing it and is not a substitute for physical distancing and hand washing. However, it can be an additional measure you can take to protect others around you, even if you have no symptoms. It can be useful for short periods of time, when physical distancing is not possible in public settings such as when grocery shopping or using public transit.

How to Wear Cloth Face Coverings

Cloth face coverings should—
• fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
• be secured with ties or ear loops
• include multiple layers of fabric
• allow for breathing without restriction
• be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or
change to shape