When it's too hot and humid, health experts advise against wearing a mask
Health authorities clarify mask-wearing do's and don't's when temperatures reach uncomfortable levels.
With much of eastern Canada from Ontario through to the Maritimes sweltering in daytime highs past 30ºC for the latter half of the past week, with heat also lingering into the weekend, it's hard enough being outside without also having to wear a face mask.
When breathing through a mask your body needs to work a little harder. Throw in uncomfortable humidity and heat, and things can get dangerous. As you breathe in and out your body is also heating up that air, making it even more uncomfortable.
While mask wearing is more common now, and recommended in many places, health authorities aren't blind to the risks of wearing them in such conditions, saying it's better to go mask-free when outside.
Dr. Theresa Tam, the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, even tweeted out a statement to that effect as temperatures reached uncomfortable levels.
So when is it okay to not wear a mask?
Some examples are:
On your run
On a bike ride
Walking the dog
Anytime you are able to keep a distance away from others outdoors
If you find yourself in a situation where you are outdoors, without a mask and the area becomes crowded, experts are telling the public to simply leave the area.
Watch the video above for a full report.
