Worcester Police To Give Free Masks, Fines For Non-Compliance

WORCESTER, MA — Worcester residents will get two options from police under Gov. Charlie Baker's mask order: either take a free face covering, or a fine up to $300.

Worcester police on Sunday said they'll distribute free homemade face coverings to anyone they see without one after Baker's order goes into effect. Anyone who refuses may get the fine.

"The order is an additional step to limit the spread of the virus, and we are looking for compliance," Chief Steven Sargent said in a news release Sunday. "We would rather hand out a mask than hand out a fine. When you are leaving your house taking your mask should become as routine as grabbing your keys. This is the new normal."

Baker's order goes into effect on Wednesday. Anyone over age 2 has to wear a face covering while out in public at places like stores and on public transportation.

Face coverings aren't meant to protect a person from getting coronavirus. Health officials believe coverings can reduce the amount of virus particles an infected person can spread. As many as one in four people with coronavirus may not show symptoms, but are still capable of spreading the virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Health officials are also advising local residents to continue social distancing practices, which means staying 6 feet or more away from others, and only going out in public if it's absolutely necessary — like a trip to the grocery store or pharmacy.