Is meeting in-person safe? It can be, but only if you follow the proper safety guidelines.

Masks

Masks are the most effective tool for combatting the virus. They create a barrier between your mouth and others to block germs from spreading.

Wear your mask over the bridge of your nose and under your chin. Germs come out of your nose and they can go into it. By wearing your mask incorrectly you are putting yourself and others at risk.

A good mask has a double layer of washable, breathable fabric and covers from the top of the nose to the chin. The best ones are blue surgical masks, followed by double-layered fabric masks. 

Neck gaiters are made of a thin fabric that is too spacious, and bandanas do not cover the chin. Both are not allowed at FHS. Do not wear them if possible.

Masks decrease the risk of spread but do not eliminate it. Do not go near others and keep your faces away.

Social Distancing

Social distancing is one way to protect yourself. Standing 6 feet or farther from others significantly decreases the risk of spreading.

Eating

Covid-19 spreads through respiratory droplets in the air. They spread when people cough, talk, sneeze, sing, or eat. Droplets occupy the air, but can also land on objects.

Eating is unsafe for 2 reasons.

1. It forces you to remove your mask.
2. The act of eating produces droplets faster.

Sharing food is unsafe because of possible droplets on the food which will enter your system directly through your mouth. Do not eat around those you do not live with.

Common Misconceptions

Droplets spread faster indoors due to a limited movement range. You are still at risk indoors, even if you wear a mask. Outside areas are the best place to meet.

You can spread the virus even if you do not feel sick. This is called being an asymptomatic carrier.

How To Wash Your Hands:

1. Wet your hands.
2. Apply soap.
3. Rub your hands together to create a lather.
4. Put your hands under the water and scrub for 20 seconds.
5. Rinse your hands for 10 seconds.
6. Dry your hands.
7. Turn off the tap — use a paper towel, do not touch the sink.

Use hand-sanitizer regularly and always wash your hands after being out. Do not touch your face (especially your eyes, nose, and mouth) after touching someone else’s belongings.

Many students are unsure about whether meeting with friends is safe. Hannah Hogan, an FHS sophomore, says it is possible.

Hannah says she has met with friends under proper safety guidelines and wishes that other students would do the same. She says most students are properly informed but still do not follow certain guidelines, like social distancing.

The virus has given Hannah a new perspective on the privileges of her social life, she says. 

It is possible for students to live an active life, but only if they attempt to fend off the virus. If every student took these precautions, FHS would be a much safer place.