Cellphone–check. Wallet–check. Keys–check. Don’t forget your mask and face shield, too! 

As much as you would love to go back to the good old days when the last two were not part of your checklist, you just have to accept that these are here to stay for a while. Health and safety should never be compromised. 

But admit it. It can get in the way at times. Like that one rainy day, you stepped out of an air-conditioned car and could not see where you are going because your face shield is fogged up? Very tempting to just take it off and wipe it with the hem of your shirt, but really, the last thing you should be doing in a public place is touching your face or your PPE. 

This little hiccup though, plus a few others you may have experienced the last few months, can be avoided. Here are some tips for you to stay safe conveniently through these challenging times. 

Have an extra mask and shield in your bag, at your workstation, or inside your car. While these are easily available everywhere from convenience stores to mall entrances, it is best to have one of your own choosing, handy—be it your preferred variant or style, or perhaps a specific brand you like. Does away with unplanned, last-minute purchases, too. 

• Mask lanyards may also be of help. If it works for eyeglasses, then they can keep you from losing your masks throughout the day.

It is worth investing in finding and using PPE that would best fit you. Forcing on an N95 mask that may be too big for you and will not provide you with snug coverage, defeats its purpose. On the other hand, it will be entirely unpleasant and painful if it is also too tight. So do your research and see which one suits your needs and well, head size. Just as it is with shoes: comfort is important.

• Look into using mask extenders and ear caps. A mask extender allows you to hook the loop to your preferred adjustment while an ear cap protects the back of your ears. You can easily find these nifty accessories online.

Hands up if you never knew shaving foam had other uses until now. Apparently, it works well in keeping your face shield from misting. Simply spray on the inside and gently wipe it off. Aside from that, properly form your mask in a snug fit to keep the warm moist air from fogging your view. Masks with nose wires that seal on your nose will help minimize fogging.

It is appalling to see how some people can seem to stand using—and reusing a couple more times—soiled masks. Serious question, guys, why? 

• If you are using a reusable fabric mask, make it a habit to wash it regularly. Use a mild detergent, perhaps one with your preferred scent, and leave it to dry in a clean area—ready for use the following day. 
• Discard disposable masks right after each use. Discard responsibly. Cut the straps to prevent animals from getting tangled up in them.
• You can easily make your own water and soap mixture for your face shield. Some recommend using baby shampoo to avoid possible eye irritation. Simply spray it on, rinse, and dry off using a microfiber towel to prevent water streaks. 
• In this humid, tropical climate, make-up, sweat, and enclosed moisture are the perfect recipe for the dreaded maskne. Avoid this from happening by changing to a clean new mask as needed. 
• Some restaurants provide face masks containers for customers–good job! When at other establishments though, well, be a girl scout and have one handy. Plastic containers are readily available in stores, but a clean, dry bag or even a trusty ziplock will do. Just do not leave your mask lying around in the open and you will be fine. 
• If you are using a reusable fabric mask, make it a habit to wash it regularly. Use a mild detergent, perhaps one with your preferred scent, and leave it to dry in a clean area—ready for use the following day. 
• Discard disposable masks right after each use. Discard responsibly. Cut the straps to prevent animals from getting tangled up in them.
• You can easily make your own water and soap mixture for your face shield. Some recommend using baby shampoo to avoid possible eye irritation. Simply spray it on, rinse, and dry off using a microfiber towel to prevent water streaks. 
• In this humid, tropical climate, make-up, sweat, and enclosed moisture are the perfect recipe for the dreaded maskne. Avoid this from happening by changing to a clean new mask as needed. 
• Some restaurants provide face masks containers for customers–good job! When at other establishments though, well, be a girl scout and have one handy. Plastic containers are readily available in stores, but a clean, dry bag or even a trusty ziplock will do. Just do not leave your mask lying around in the open and you will be fine. 

Keep in mind that there are plenty of other ways to do any of the above tips and we would love to hear some of your suggestions as well. As long as the end of the day, we go back to our three golden rules: wash your hands, wear a mask, and keep distance—yes, you will be fine. Stay safe, everyone!