A growing number of cities, counties and states across the US are taking the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendation to wear a face mask out in public one step further.

Where do you have to wear a face mask or covering?

So far, all of the mandates are requiring people to wear masks when going to essential businesses, hospitals and using public transportation. These are places where there are crowds of people, making social distancing much more difficult.

Do I have to wear a face mask outside on a walk, bike ride or jog?

If you’re outside on a walk or riding your bike, you don’t have to wear a face mask, according to the states’ orders. However, if you’re within city limits, some orders say that you should bring a cloth covering with you in the event that you pass someone else at close range or decide to go into a shop. It’s possible you could also be stopped and cited.

This is because you’ll likely be around other people on the sidewalk and can expose them to the virus (or vice-versa). If you’re exercising outside, it’s best to choose an area that doesn’t have much pedestrian traffic, like your neighborhood or outside of the city.

Do I have to wear a face mask in my car?

The mandatory face mask orders don’t extend to your car. However, they still apply to situations where you’re within six feet of someone outside your household.

Should children wear face masks?

Most of the counties and states with mandates suggest that children wear face masks when going to essential businesses, starting between the ages of 2 and 9. It isn’t recommended for children who have breathing problems or who are under the age of 2 to wear a face mask.

However, some areas like San Francisco, say that kids between the ages of 3 and 12 are not required wear a face mask. And if they do, they need to be supervised by an adult. Whereas states like Maryland make it a requirement for children ages 9 and older to wear cloth coverings.