"We're extremely worried about the danger of discarded masks"

Sunday 14 February 2021

Discarded masks are posing a threat to Guernsey's wildlife, as a local animal charity appeals to people to dispose of them properly.

Face masks littering streets, beaches and other places pose a risk to animals and to humans, as we do not know who has worn them.

The GSPCA has already come to the aid of wildlife that have become trapped in face masks - the cords of which should always be cut before disposal.

"We are extremely worried about the danger discarded facemasks can pose to animals," said Manager Steve Byrne. 

“Every year we rescue dozens of animals injured or caught in rubbish and discarded fishing nets, lines and hooks.”

“It is extremely important that facemasks are disposed of safely to prevent injury to wildlife and it is also important to keep them stored safely away from your pets.”

The GSPCA is urging the public to:

• discard of masks and disposable masks safely;

• cut the cords before discarding them;

• if possible use environmentally friendly options such as those you can wash and/or reuse;

• store your face masks in a safe place away from your pets.

Pictured top: Yvonne and Beckie from the GSPCA extricating a pigeon from a face mask.