According to Straits Times reports, Environment Minister Vivian Balakrishnan noted that Singaporeans are “very frustrated, angry and distressed about the situation.” The Singapore haze is a result of the fires in Sumatera. At 12pm on June 21, PSI levels soared to 401 according to readings by the National Environment Agency.
Closing down of schools due to hazardous Singapore haze
Based on reports by The National Agency, the haze is likely to persist for the next few days. If the Singapore haze continues to worsen, The Ministry of Manpower may decide to shut schools and child centres as well as issue a stop-work order.
An update will be given by the Ministry of Manpower today and the Ministry of Health has also given hospitals a heads up so that they can accommodate the potential increase of patients due to respiratory issues.
Pollutant Standard Index: PSI readings
100-200 (Unhealthy): In this range, some people may experience a mild aggravation and will display symptoms such as eye irritation, coughing and sneezing.
200-300 (Very unhealthy): People may experience moderate aggravation and a more widespread of symptoms.
301-400 (Hazardous): Significant aggravation of symptoms for sensitive persons. Some people may experience the early onset of certain diseases.
Above 400 (Hazardous): Any reading above 400 could actually be life-threatening to elderly folks or sick people while healthy people might experience adverse effects that would affect daily activity.
Tips to stay safe during the Haze
1. Stay indoors if possible. If you have to go outdoors, put on a N95 certified mask.
2. Keep your windows closed. If possible tape the window gaps with masking tape and place a damp towel under the bedroom door.
3. Those with a history of eczema may experience flare ups. Use lotion or moisturisers several times a day to protect your skin.
4. Drinks as much water as you can to keep yourself hydrated.
5. Wash your face, hands and body after going outdoors.
6. Use an air purifier. You can buy one from Best Denki or Harvey Norman. If air purifiers are sold out, keep an open bowl of normal tap water in the room for the air to remain moist.
7. Use an air-conditioner in your home to help remove pollutants at home.
8. If your eyes are aggravated and you are wearing contact lenses, stop wearing them until your eyes have healed and the air situation has improved.
9. Cut down on coffee and alcohol, which promote fluid loss and leach nutrients from your body. Other foods to cut down include sugars, refined white flours, white pastas, dairy products, peanuts and red meat.
10. Take a green food supplement such as chlorella, spirulina or blue-green algae. These supplements boost cellular activity to counter the harmful effects of toxins.
11. Please visit a doctor if you are experiencing adverse effects due to the Singapore haze.
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