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01/24/2022 11:00 PMArea towns, including Clinton, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook are continuing to distribute masks, and this time the towns are giving away free N95 masks, which experts say provide a higher level of protection against the virus that causes COVID than cloth masks.
Area towns have distributed masks in the past, and they also recently conducted distributions of free COVID-19 tests. Supplies of those tests were quickly depleted during the recent surge in cases related to the Omicron variant.
According to the CDC, N95 masks help prevent the spread of COVID-19. “When worn consistently and properly, they provide the highest level of protection from particles, including the virus that causes COVID-19. Additionally, they contain your respiratory droplets and particles so you do not expose others.”
The CDC states that N95 masks that are properly certified meet standards set by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health standards. The N95 masks should create a snug fit to the face to provide proper protection.
Many masks on the market do not meet the correct standard to ensure the most protection against COVID-19. The masks currently being distributed by local municipalities are certified N95.
Clinton
Clinton residents can visit the Town Manager’s Office at Andrews memorial town Hall, 54 E Main Street, to receive two masks per person. Erroneously it was stated during a Town Council meeting on Jan. 19 that hand sanitizer was also available, but Town Manager Karl Kilduff said that is not correct.
Westbrook
The town is distributing N95 masks at Town Hall, 866 Boston Post Road. People can obtain them by coming to the First Selectman’s Office and showing a Westbrook I.D.
Old Saybrook
Masks are available for Old Saybrook residents at the Department of Police Services at 36 Lynde Street. The department is giving away two masks per adult; residents need an I.D. or piece of mail to prove they are an Old Saybrook resident.