Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Dealing with the haze

My Paper, Monday, July 01, 2013, Page A4, News
From http://epaper.mypaper.sg/emnd/fvxen/fvxp/fvxpress.php?param=2013-07-01
Source Website: http://www.mypaper.com.sg/news/dealing-haze-20130701
By mypaper, Published on Jul 01, 2013


Particulate Matter (PM) are grad of size<br>PM2.5 (2.5µm) & PM10 (10µm) compared to a 60µm diameter hair.
PHOTO: Particulate Matter (PM) are grad of size
PM2.5 (2.5µm) & PM10 (10µm) compared to a 60µm diameter hair.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh69NlOCyVW59ADmagHRxByyLcGxBMyeP09WgNZAAzZqDe_jZjWzPXMIHyDue9UtAnPLbWXxYnyuGrJxXbAHO970c__ZIqZl36kvZrK27GOYRGy4KRB1YB_ZybIf0BdlmwoTbnwiuADPMV2/s484/PM2.5+&+PM10.jpg
http://www.mypaper.com.sg/sites/default/files/field/graphic/20130701/MY_20130701_HAZEGUIDE_G1_3725768.gif
My Paper, Monday, July 01, 2013, Page A4, News


HOW does one cope with the haze? This is a pertinent question, especially since schools reopened today amid the current haze situation. My Paper has prepared a guide on dealing with the haze.


How can the haze affect my health?

The haze contains particulate matter (PM), which are graded by size.

PM10 refers to particles less than 10 micrometres in diameter, while PM2.5 refers to particles less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter.

PM2.5 particles are more hazardous to humans as they can get lodged deep in the lungs, causing complications for those with respiratory illnesses.

Healthy people can get irritated or watery eyes, conjunctivitis or nasal irritation due to the haze. Other symptoms include throat irritation, shortness of breath and dry cough.

For those with respiratory illnesses, the haze can cause shortness of breath, and worsen conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis when haze conditions are bad.

In children, long-term exposure to PM2.5 may lead to chronic respiratory diseases.

For pregnant women, long-term exposure to haze can cause birth complications.

Seniors, as well as those with heart problems or are stroke victims, are more susceptible to the haze, which can exacerbate health problems.


Haze reaches ‘unhealthy’ level in Singapore.
PHOTO: Haze reaches ‘unhealthy’ level in Singapore.
Any reading between 101 and 200 is considered “unhealthy”. The smoky-smelling haze from Indonesia shrouded skylines and was visible on street level at various places.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sp2PglTP7vk8e2fygjYNmk-xQPy5fIhAUdlMKpf89MAlGFqBhPJlf-ewvMohINd68ntJLp2lJTaC42gvcSWUjDgHCoDSwXAXh6HHSDUUKm5puV8KD6oWtqaPODBl-aXm1_5Zqah-yj3f/s907/1016513_656901504324841_1548622310_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/1016513_656901504324841_1548622310_n.jpg
http://mitsueki.wordpress.com/tag/check-psi-singapore/


What can I do when it gets hazy?

Pay attention to the National Environment Agency's (NEA's) hourly PSI (Pollutant Standards Index) updates, and follow the daily advisories found on its website (www.nea.gov.sg/psi).

When the PSI hits very unhealthy levels (above 200), healthy people should avoid prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities, or wear an N95 mask otherwise. Prolonged and strenuous activities refer to those that last several hours and lead to people taking in more breaths than normal, such as swimming.


The NEA summary of air quality by categories based on PSI, and how they affect your general health.


PHOTO: The NEA summary of air quality by categories based on PSI, and how they affect your general health.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaqJ-QcTPrUgOx2naWFXqkBQYqRPFAbRI9ZzUBSQNnAiyeUpVMJo8KlYClH3Zt7Eawk5lLTGSd7etL82PAGzxs3awp1yY_WlUwBp_D50Te-OmhFgYcALE-nfaOSeCwkcUZ2184dB7Fildt/s482/998891_10151675458520979_631118876_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/998891_10151675458520979_631118876_n.jpg
http://mitsueki.wordpress.com/tag/check-psi-singapore/


Vulnerable groups of people - including children, pregnant women and the elderly - should avoid outdoor activities when the PSI is above 200, or wear an N95 mask if they cannot avoid being outdoors.

Air purifiers can help filter particles from the air. Visit NEA's website (www.nea.gov.sg) for a list of portable air cleaners.

Air-conditioners can help, but not all can filter PM2.5 particles.

If you are suffering from an existing illness, take your medication regularly. If you feel uncomfortable, seek medical attention immediately.


Hello Kitty PSI Index & Limited Edition Singapore Haze Kitties


PHOTO: Hello Kitty PSI Index & Limited Edition Singapore Haze Kitties
NOTE: "PSI" refers to "(the)common abbreviation for "Pollutant Standard Index". It is a method of measuring air pressure" - with currently the most sort after set of numbers in Singapore (after a person's salary … J/K) measured in reference to the degree of air pollution now, due to the Haze situation originating from Indonesia, Sumatra.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIM_yUim1hELCNOlYNpYzonVqX99IcxFuFS_qOEmQNIhpiVSsWX38PiCf0S9OlY40RN9g8PH1OhWpSrMhVOXwZ0-DzgL9y9fy0ucHMcedS7prDiGgydDrmsRTESoOl_yukEn6Cx33Jx9gC/s500/9112693662_167bb5b797.jpg
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3758/9112693662_167bb5b797.jpg
http://toysrevil.blogspot.sg/2013/06/hello-kitty-psi-index-limited-edition.html


Drink more water, which can relieve an irritated throat, and eat more fresh fruit and vegetables.

Cut down on alcohol and coffee.

Use a warm towel to wipe eyelids and apply eye drops when eyes are irritated.

Get medication, like antihistamines and decongestants, if you are suffering from a runny nose.


N95 mask 
PHOTO: N95 mask
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaExlHKOX3qj-G8HVHOj6REcAEIblRkUI6X-OzdmkO09KI5T8wLDpatP_Xsu3DZzg6hE9abgHs19mGjcY7y5M49AGdEeQXHTAMpRUbBAUvQztkzDXCpapNMxV-ZNv1Po3pbIdPzSBlfrUA/s456/N95+Mask+from+3M.jpg
http://www.mypaper.com.sg/sites/default/files/field/graphic/20130701/MY_20130701_HAZEGUIDE_G2_3725769.gif
My Paper, Monday, July 01, 2013, Page A4, News


Should I use a surgical or N95 mask?

The N95 mask has been scientifically proven to filter out microscopic particles, including haze particles, effectively.Most surgical masks do not effectively filter small particles. Still, in cases where an N95 mask is not recommended, healthy people can use a surgical mask instead.

The N95 mask increases the effort required to breathe, so using it may cause discomfort, tiredness or a headache.


PSI higher than PSY


PHOTO: PSI higher than PSY
Posted by F. Y. C. BlueKelah, Thursday, June 20
The N95 mask has been scientifically proven to filter out microscopic particles, including haze particles, effectively.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Jg2ERVPF5FQLGEODSAbim_-_0miAS0JAIcukaPAn-gRgMZKchHECMMJyf7wlXvziSjweHUwZbfSuuFX_fcVOGVadXVx7xcmHJxmEtrtaKMGJIji_jaTRPeh77hgGc2C1wncbTQUce55X/s960/1012295_10200199349894601_80230134_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/1012295_10200199349894601_80230134_n.jpg
http://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/eat-drink-man-woman-16/gpgt-zehzeh-mask-jin-sexy-4260942-3.html


Seniors, people with chronic lung or heart disease, those who have suffered a stroke, and pregnant women in their second and third trimesters should consult their doctor on whether they can use an N95 mask.

N95 masks are not certified for kids' use, so they should remain indoors as much as possible when haze conditions are bad.

To learn how to wear an N95 mask, visit the Ministry of Health's website (www.moh.gov.sg).
By mypaper, Published on Jul 01, 2013


Visitor numbers at the Singapore Flyer have returned to pre-haze levels. The giant observation wheel suspended operations temporarily for a few hours per day on 20th and 21st June, when PSI reached above 300. Operations returned to normal on 22 June.
PHOTO: Visitor numbers at the Singapore Flyer have returned to pre-haze levels. The giant observation wheel suspended operations temporarily for a few hours per day on 20th and 21st June, when PSI reached above 300. Operations returned to normal on 22 June.
From Channel NewsAsia Singapore's Photos, Channel NewsAsia Singapore's Page, 01 July 2013.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiozQDgCnFHM1Po0JKDVSrOz-rFuBR8fpuBLN9TEStN5hNY5k3CEFN8iFjdq8LlExIpcI9LwkdIjvESOzlUoiNXaDSiD0EhcKm0M34I6nVy5zsuCmY2Zk0R4SmJ8IN4sSySvitqELCkaOGy/s960/993618_10151513951082934_1874188285_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/993618_10151513951082934_1874188285_n.jpg
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151513951082934&set=a.106297597933.96699.93889432933&type=1&theater

 The giant observation wheel although suspended from operations temporarily on 20th and 21st June, responsibily answered to the call of duty for the nation. PSI then has reached above 300 ~ 400.


PHOTO: The giant observation wheel although suspended from operations temporarily on 20th and 21st June, responsibily answered to the call of duty for the nation. PSI then has reached above 300 ~ 400.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQtovrAj8WRVZNJcYdONHFEnrDHo1hQC56LpND5osnoKOkEsN1Z2XiOjHn6-qEzJbGuqXtnkxYrjphlh9yRv2XLxA40PFvx_qaJoeKah2OzYrHBE6vsYbfNkYlQnBlj_uovl-1nstNYtv/s960/BNcCq3cCYAAA0EF.jpg+large.jpg
http://pbs.twimg.com/media/BNcCq3cCYAAA0EF.jpg:large
http://twicsy.com/u/AlisaAriffin

 Hello Kitty PSI Index & Limited Edition Singapore Haze Kitties


PHOTO: Hello Kitty PSI Index & Limited Edition Singapore Haze Kitties
Anti-HazeKitty spotted on Mitsueki (http://mitsueki.wordpress.com/2013/06/20/the-haze-is-getting-worst/)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7OewcR9LIfZSr4hCRnPyuSNNPbOW963GusoRN1C1vMrcZo1dU5gWXXWX6nOsgVtwisgLTP28tL-Cas-aJy87Q-76jLNW0Fj781bRF_JtP2-qAfjz9AiPvLV_PgXIH-LApS0tn7bKbnzJ_/s500/9104582171_519a7530cf.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5507/9104582171_519a7530cf.jpg
http://toysrevil.blogspot.sg/2013/06/hello-kitty-psi-index-limited-edition.html

 雾锁南洋 wù​ suǒ Nán ​yáng 风雨同舟 fēng yǔ​ tóng zhōu - The Awakening. FengYuTongZhou 1984


PHOTO: 雾锁南洋 wù​ suǒ Nán ​yáng 风雨同舟 fēng yǔ​ tóng zhōu - The Awakening. FengYuTongZhou 1984
Photos of SAFRA
The haze is the best reason to head on down to EnergyOne gyms
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0HqVJNTVKWuVIbya8cF6xEwtkX6oUcwKRqM3BTNACl0y45xcpUCenfPK-oTwZ0ZSAWCxAq7Ofe9AsmICAJMs2040KfRzq9V8gxa07vUOTFoo8eLcoM6S0rDE6mC1ZETZ3noFd0JztZkzC/s640/971452_10151783044521833_1383178066_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/971452_10151783044521833_1383178066_n.jpg
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151783044521833&set=o.138131312885745&type=1&theater

 城裡的月光 chéng lǐ de yuè​ guāng @豆腐街 dòu​ fu jiē ( Tofu Street )


PHOTO: 城裡的月光 chéng lǐ de yuè​ guāng @豆腐街 dòu​ fu jiē ( Tofu Street )
The haze shrouded skyline of Singapore late June 19, 2013.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyxMBEbKrDnHXXXYNrfaQUGOmjZ8ag2qEPZSJd-VwoEeAX2xPOngTBrG90UxuMoE5ncSuRUKO4gxczXWPmVwxBoXEwzHPb4wLa_i9-4bRrhtaEc9oYXyFFQZ-kLLBzjRgUam-T24mJq_NG/s630/693278-268871_b.jpg
http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/L8bdZ4A_ZMlGqV73_FQ5Sg--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Zmk9aW5zZXQ7aD00MjA7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en_us/News/Reuters/2013-06-19T181133Z_2070494540_GM1E96K05VV01_RTRMADP_3_SOUTHEASTASIA-HAZE.JPG
http://sg.news.yahoo.com/photos/haze-situation-in-singapore-enters-hazardous-range-slideshow/tourist-poses-photo-against-haze-shrouded-skyline-singapore-photo-181133834.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOytyCxLiGo&list=PLA784DA10CEED8A30

  New movie: The HazeNow showing already. Look out of your window for part 16 in HD and 3D.


PHOTO: New movie: The Haze
Now showing already. Look out of your window for part 16 in HD and 3D.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVBm5Ffwdkj1w3GTQrbcLzBVNsZHeLIy0wlwLhLk9r61MycgBYL1PTJT1fAggtUWlTRjiCQ_rfyteSbm_lzKZOHTGivMQ7NUSdhRXwcLGlhU0Auyv3ogcVLPSnjXFd4f9GhLd-NTQLABya/s1000/2ywxw7a.jpg
http://oi41.tinypic.com/2ywxw7a.jpg
http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=2ywxw7a&s=5



Reference
Posted by at
Labels: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,