Village To Distribute More Masks To Public April 30

Press release from the Village of Northbrook:

Posted on: April 28, 2020

A second mask distribution event is taking place for Northbrook residents on Thursday, April 30, starting at 8am for seniors only and 9am for residents of any age, while supplies last. If you received masks at the first distribution event, please refrain from attending to allow other residents the opportunity to obtain a supply. The distribution is taking place at Northbrook Court (1515 Lake Cook Road). Here’s what you need to know:

When are masks being distributed?

A limited supply of masks are being distributed on Thursday, April 30, at 8am for Northbrook seniors only and 9am for Northbrook residents of any age. The event is taking place at Northbrook Court (1515 Lake Cook Road) at the south side of the mall, outside of AMC Theatres (enter from the furthest east entrance).

How are masks being distributed?

Masks will be distributed on a ’first come, first served’ basis and in a drive-thru fashion. Residents will enter at the furthest east entrance of the mall and proceed to the distribution location at the south side of the mall, outside of AMC Theatres. See the event traffic flow map here. We thank everyone for their patience while waiting and ask that you drive courteously.

Volunteers and staff in personal protective equipment will be checking identification/proof of Northbrook residence (we recommend bringing a water bill) and handing out the masks to cars with current Northbrook vehicle stickers. Please allow for volunteers to place the masks in the backseat of your car on the passenger side.

How many masks can I take?

Up to four masks are allowed per vehicle. The Village has secured a limited supply, so we encourage residents to be considerate of others and only take what they need. If you received masks at the first distribution event, please refrain from attending to allow other residents the opportunity to obtain a supply.

What kind of masks are being distributed? How do I care for them?

These masks are non-surgical, reusable, cloth masks. They are made of 3-ply cotton with cotton spandex ear loops and are machine washable (do not heat dry). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing masks after each use (or if soiled) in your washing machine with laundry detergent.

I have questions. Who can I contact?

Questions on this mask distribution can be directed to Debbie Ford at 847-664-4013 or by email.

How do I wear my mask? How do I take off my mask safely?

Masks should fully cover your nose and mouth. It should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face and be secured with ties or ear loops. Refrain from touching your face covering while out.

Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing face coverings, and wash your hands immediately after removing.

When should face coverings be worn?

By Order of the Village President, face coverings are required for persons over the age of five when working in or patronizing essential businesses and operations that are open to the public or when employees have contact with the public; engaging in essential activities such as shopping for necessary supplies and services, seeking medical supplies or medication, or visiting a health care professional; and riding in public transportation, taxis, or ride share vehicles. See an FAQ on requirements for businesses.

On May 1, Governor Pritzker’s Stay-At-Home Order extension requires face coverings for persons over the age of two who are able to medically tolerate a face covering or a mask.

Are there alternative options for face coverings?

Mask alternatives include scarves and bandanas. You can also make your own face covering/mask or support a Northbrook business by purchasing one. Please note that surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders.

Where can I get more information on face coverings?

The CDC recommends the use of face coverings to slow the spread of COVID-19 in public settings where it can be difficult to maintain social distancing. Face coverings are also used to prevent those who have COVID-19 (and may not know it) from spreading it to others. Learn more here.

This press release was produced by the Village of Northbrook. The views expressed here are the author’s own.