Dust Masks
Breathe freely in a disaster with a dust mask
Dust masks are useful items in the event of an emergency that involves airborne particles, such as a fire, volcanic eruption or dust storm. Face masks are also helpful in preventing the spread of disease. Medical and industrial-quality dust masks are available for purchase, but for do-it-yourselfers, homemade face masks can provide a fair degree of protection from contaminated air.
Top-quality face masks, such as N95 dust masks, are rated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The N95 designation refers to the size of particles that the mask filters out; the CDC recommends N95, N99 and N100 as the minimum level of respiratory protection which should be worn in the event of an outbreak of disease. Most dust masks are sold in quantities, often with six or more masks in a box, since they are disposable dust masks, meant to be worn just once and then discarded.
As with gas masks, the proper fit of a dust mask is important; many dust masks have a bendable metal strip across the nose for purposes of adjustment. Some masks are known as respirators and are custom-fitted to each person's face; these reusable dust masks are more expensive than the common one-time-use dust masks.
To make a homemade dust mask in the event of a disaster, follow these simple instructions:
- Use finely-woven lightweight cloth (material from a T-shirt also works well) and cut it into a roughly two foot by two foot piece.
- Wet the fabric with water and then wring it out thoroughly so that it is damp. Dry cloth is not effective at filtering out dust and contaminants, and wet cloth is difficult to breathe through.
- Fold the damp cloth diagonally to form a triangle. Place it over the nose and mouth with the point facing down and the two ends behind the head. Knot the ends behind the head to keep the mask in place, taking care not to cover the ears.
Why Is a Dust Mask Important in a Disaster Kit?
- Many disasters and accidents cause contaminants to be released in the air.
- Dust masks provide effective protection against airborne pollutants.
Things to Consider When Buying a Dust Mask
- What type of dust mask is best for the type of disaster I am trying to protect against?
- What size of dust mask do I need for myself and my family?
Top Brands of Dust Masks
- 3M dust masks
- Kimberly Clark dust masks
- North Safety dust masks
- Willson dust masks
