With the
haze PSI levels yoyo-ing between dangerous and hazardous levels this week, the atmosphere feels almost like dooms day is coming. The sky is dusty
and obscured, something that many of us who have not set foot in an even more
polluted city before might only see in an action or sci-fi Hollywood
movie. There is talk of stopping work and school (which serves little
consolation to the kids, many who are supposed to be enjoying the June
holidays), and masks of all types are out of stock everywhere.
Yes, the
hazy situation is undeniably a pain in more areas than one, literally. Even as
I’m typing this up, my eyes are hurting. Nevertheless, panicking, getting
frustrated and complaining does little to alleviate the
health hazard except drive up your blood pressure and sense of helplessness.
If you do not have an N95 mask, it's not the end of the world. Here are things you can do to limit exposure to the haze and stay safe.
Monitor the PSI
levels closely, and plan your activities in accordance to PSI levels, your
age and physical condition. If you have a smartphone, download NEA’s myENV so
that you can receive the latest updates for PSI levels.
When the air quality is at unhealthy to hazardous levels (PSI 150 and above), stay indoors as much as possible, and
reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities. The key is to reduce exposure
to the haze. When you exercise outdoors, you are inhaling deeply, and
consequently breathe in more toxic particles. However, you can and should continue exercising in an indoor
environment. Keeping fit helps to strengthen your immune system.
When indoors, keep
the haze out by shutting all your windows and doors, then switch on the
fans and / or air-conditioner. Yes, the air will be stale, but… do you
seriously think the air out there is fresh? Fans should be sufficient to
stimulate ventilation, but for better measure, get an air purifier if you want
to improve the air quality indoors.
If you use the air-conditioner, make sure the filters are
clean; otherwise, it will pollute the air indoors, and it will also have to
work harder and utilise more power and energy.
Respiratory masks like N95 masks are strongly encouraged for when PSI levels exceed 150. This is especially so for those with heart and respiratory problems, or are simply more affected by the haze. However, if you do not have access to these, you can try wearing a normal surgical mask, but place a piece of wet tissue over it when you're outdoors. Some people have also shared that they wear multiple layers of surgical masks, though this may be too stifling while having limited effect. If you're wearing a surgical mask, make sure you at least wear it correctly, with the metal strip at the top tapered to your nose bridge and the bottom part of the mask pulled down over your chin: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8v3-lQambM
Additionally, those with respiratory problems should consult the doctor before using respirator masks like the N95 masks. These masks help to keep out fine particles in the air, but on the other hand, may cause some restriction in breathing. Changing masks throughout the day is also necessary if you are spending a long time outdoors because air particles would stay on it.
If you experience discomfort in your throat and nose, or
first signs of the cold, get over-the-counter
medication for sore throats. Try consuming natural throat soothing
products like Pi Pa Gao and Honey to keep throat irritation at bay. Drink
plenty of fluids to keep your throat and mouth well-moisturised, as well as
protect your immune system.
Should you suffer from shortness of breath or persistent coughing,
see your doctor.
Sufferers of asthma
must keep your inhalers at hand in case your condition is triggered by the
haze particles.
Dry, irritated eyes are common side effects of haze. They
are more particularly severe in those who already suffer from dry eyes, like
the elderly, contact lens users and people who have undergone laser treatments
in their eyes. Use eye-drops to moisturise your eyes and clean out toxic
particles.
Feel hot, bothered and possibly dirty from the air? Cold
showers and frequently splashing your face with water helps alleviate dryness
and heat, keeps you refreshed.
Last but not least, turn in early and get ample rest so that
your body gets more time to repair and rejuvenate at night.
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