Ask DART: Do I Have to Wear a Face Mask While Riding DART?

DART bus operator wears a mask. DART bus operator wears a mask.
Posted on Apr 23, 2020 by Karen Ptacek

Ask DART

Question:
Do I have to wear a face mask or face covering when I am riding DART?

Answer:
UPDATE As of July 3, 2020 - DART Riders Required to Wear Face Coverings Starting Friday, July 3


Written April 23, 2020
Although you are not required to wear a face covering to ride, DART strongly recommends that our passengers wear cloth face coverings on transit vehicles, at rail stations and bus transit centers, and in public settings, in addition to practicing social distancing measures.

We know you may need to leave your home for a short period of time to obtain essential goods and services. You may be one of the essential workers who is taking care of our community and you need to get to and from your job. And when you do, DART is here to help meet your transportation needs.

This face-covering order also applies when you visit those essential businesses or are in any community setting, like medical offices, pharmacies, grocery stores, or restaurants for take-out. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the coronavirus can spread between people interacting in close proximity – for example, speaking, coughing, or sneezing – even if those people are not exhibiting symptoms.

Following the face covering order isn’t as hard as you think, and it doesn’t require special materials. You need some form of covering over your nose and mouth, such as a homemade mask, scarf, bandana or handkerchief.

The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.

The CDC has simple instructions for making sewn and no-sew face coverings. You can find more ideas on online, including YouTube and Pinterest.

Wearing a face covering is not a substitute for maintaining 6-feet social distancing and hand washing, as these remain important steps to slowing the spread of the virus.

DART is doing its part to keep you healthy and safe. Learn more about how we’re responding to the coronavirus at DART.org/health.

Categories :
Load more comments
Thank you for the comment! Your comment must be approved first
comment-avatar

Get DART Daily by Email

Subscribe

Filter Content