Showing posts with label Haze. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Haze. Show all posts

Monday, October 5, 2015

Singaporeans band together to fight haze

My Paper, Monday, October 05 2015, Page A6, Top Stories
From http://epaper.mypaper.sg/epc/en/2015-10-05/
Source Website: http://mypaper.sg/top-stories/singaporeans-band-together-fight-haze-20151005
By Lee min Kok, mypaper, mklee@sph.com.sg, Published on Oct 05, 2015


Bad haze conditions bring the best out of S’poreans
PHOTO: Bad haze conditions bring the best out of S’poreans
Posted by Belmont Lay on 14 September 2015
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj6F1PQxJMU45AnuRVjbUWjNkomKbN93c-cn9ARPJwBtnnzslmHDmluRl6wa5Tu2y5sfdCDXYksCHqoiNiHzJbEfLcaSJyNbECJsk3DOVzAYBnZqtjhNUdTdBJenzfx-SDZQcdg6R24ik/s1600/bad-haze-good-photoshop-06.jpg
http://cdn.mothership.sg/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/bad-haze-good-photoshop-06.jpg
http://mothership.sg/2015/09/bad-haze-conditions-bring-the-best-out-of-sporeans-photoshop-skills/


EXPECT air quality today to be similar to yesterday's.

The National Environment Agency said yesterday at 6pm that the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) for the next 24 hours is expected to be in the high end of the moderate range (51 to 100) and the low end of the unhealthy range (101 to 200).

It may enter the mid-section of the unhealthy range if denser haze is blown in.

But even amid the hazy weather and grey skies that have plagued Singapore over the past few weeks, there have been bright spots to chase the gloom away.

Examples of Singaporeans looking out for each other and performing acts of kindness can be found on social media, while different initiatives have emerged to help combat the haze.


ACTS OF KINDNESS
For instance, Facebook user Josiah Ng was touched to receive a message from his driver after booking a cab on Sept 24, which read: "Hello Mr Ng, I am your taxi booking. The haze is very bad. You stay indoor (sic) first. I will SMS you again when I am here, so you don't need to wait in the haze. Will not start meter first."

Mr Ng said that the driver had been sending the same message to his other customers.

While there were reports of people cashing in by reselling N95 masks at a higher price during the last haze crisis in 2013, one hardware shop is doing the opposite.

Home - located on the ground floor of Block 442, Clementi Avenue 3 - was spotted bearing a sign in English and Chinese that read: "Free mask for children and senior citizens."


Free mask for children and senior citizens.
PHOTO: Home - located on the ground floor of Block 442, Clementi Avenue 3 - was spotted bearing a sign in English and Chinese that read: "Free mask for children and senior citizens."
Photo: ST
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsZC4j85RbYAoOFzZ5yVebfcThRMU91DUd7E51lALep1G5Pgy-wZhgM6sNpVXo_25-7jOoEmRrviaRLLFn-pn7CBTQn5094670y7NBoyqiAiLmK-Pw255su-l2evWw0EVAHYni6GoSAD8/s1600/Free+mask+for+children+and+senior+citizens.jpg
My Paper, Monday, October 05 2015, Page A6, Top Stories
 

INITIATIVES TO HELP PEOPLE COPE WITH HAZE
The people behind local kindness movement Stand Up For Singapore last month kickstarted a fund-raising campaign called I Will Be Your Shelter to buy air purifiers and filters for the elderly and needy in the North Bridge Road area.

So far, it has raised about $6,000 through crowdfunding site Indiegogo and donations. It distributed 40 air filters and 10 purifiers to the residents on Sept 19.

For Cai Yinzhou, the health of Singapore's homeless and migrant workers was foremost on his mind when he embarked on his 3,000 Masks, 1 Singapore project to help his target demographic.

Meanwhile, sisters Cheryl and Charlene Lie launched their mask-collection drive, Let's Help Kalimantan, which aims to help Indonesians cope with severe haze conditions that have reportedly hit PSI levels of nearly 2,000. In Indonesia, a PSI reading above 350 is considered hazardous.


EDUCATION CAMPAIGNS
Several volunteer groups have also sprung up, such as the Haze Elimination Action Team (Heat) and People's Movement To Stop Haze, which aim to raise public awareness of the companies that are responsible for causing the forest fires.

Besides publishing tips on Facebook to help Singaporeans guard against hazy conditions, Heat intends to sue the companies.

The People's Movement To Stop Haze has been particularly vocal on advocating the use of products made from sustainable sources. Its campaign, We Breathe What We Buy, is trying to collect 50,000 pledges from Singaporeans to show that there is a demand for sustainable products.

By Lee min Kok, mypaper, mklee@sph.com.sg, Published on Oct 05, 2015


When a blizzard hits, or the temperature drops into a dangerous range, school will be canceled.
PHOTO: When a blizzard hits, or the temperature drops into a dangerous range, school will be canceled.  This past June, although public schools were on holiday, some private schools canceled when the haze became so bad that our air was rated as dangerous.
Posted by Expat Bostonians on January 28, 2014
https://expatbostonians.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/screen-shot-2014-01-25-at-1-55-21-pm.png
http://expatbostonians.com/category/travel-by-continent-country/north-america/us/boston/



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Friday, September 25, 2015

Don't judge the haze by sight or smell

My Paper, Friday, September 25, 2015, Page A10, Opinion
From http://epaper.mypaper.sg/epc/en/2015-09-25/
Source Website: http://mypaper.sg/opinion/dont-judge-haze-sight-or-smell-20150925
By Linette Lai, linettel@sph.com.sg, Published on Sep 25, 2015


SHROUDED: A cyclist along Sengkang East Road yesterday, with HDB blocks on the horizon barely visible.
PHOTO: SHROUDED: A cyclist along Sengkang East Road yesterday, with HDB blocks on the horizon barely visible. Experts say people should not draw conclusions on air quality based on just visibility levels, or how bad the haze smells.
ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_SjjELH4rXlz-S-EVH5sOkG2FkkVbYzHJ3YZGFQfvM3E0J5JeLWCJQAWptlneK4wJZRh5nvpJObp44Aos8fgSBuZAhC7kGwXUx4pkPEO8JaSAURDMuwrRge6qn5PRykdvr5IK9slJdRI/s1600/MY_20150925_OPINION25_P1_1710190-1.jpg
http://mypaper.sg/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/20150925/MY_20150925_OPINION25_P1_1710190.jpg
http://mypaper.sg/opinion/dont-judge-haze-sight-or-smell-20150925


IT IS that time of year again - when N95 masks fly off the shelves, air purifiers get dusted off, and complaints about sore throats and dry eyes soar.

Some days, people in Singapore wake up to an acrid smell, while smog-like shrouds block out the horizon and private planes have to be diverted to Johor.

Experts say that people should not draw conclusions on air quality based on just visibility levels, or how bad the haze smells.

The haze could be more visible because there is more water vapour in the air, according to the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources. And the smell may be caused by other compounds generated when vegetation and peat are burned.

Air pollution researcher Erik Velasco of the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology's Centre for Environmental Sensing and Modelling said: "The low visibility and acrid smell associated with the haze... are subjective and cannot be used to measure air quality."

Instead, one of the best ways to determine how unhealthy the air is in real time is to look at the one-hour PM2.5 levels published by the National Environment Agency (NEA), say experts.

UNDERSTANDING THE HAZE
Typically, two types of particles make up the haze.

There are the coarser ones, which the human body is mostly equipped to filter out. These particles are large enough to be trapped by the nasal passages or end up being passed directly through the body.

The bigger worry is the PM2.5 pollutants - so called because they are no larger than 2.5 microns, or one-thirtieth the diameter of a human hair.

These can become trapped deep in the lungs and are tiny enough to pass through linings into the bloodstream.

Long-term exposure to these particles on a regular basis has been linked to increased risk of death from heart and lung complications such as lung cancer or heart disease.

On a regular, non-hazy day, the maximum concentration of PM2.5 is usually between 20 and 35 micrograms (mcg) per cubic m, said Dr Velasco. They start becoming a serious problem when the numbers hit 100, and dangerous when they exceed 200.

Yesterday, the one-hour PM2.5 levels surged past 200 in many parts of the island by midday, with southern Singapore hitting 319 at 6pm.

Starting in April last year, the Government incorporated PM2.5 levels in the calculation of the overall PSI for the first time, to give a more accurate measurement of air quality.

The short-term effect of high PSI levels is apparent to anyone who stays outdoors for too long - headaches, irritation of the eyes and nose and aggravation of conditions such as asthma or bronchitis.

But the long-term health impact of exposure to haze for a couple of months a year - as in Singapore's case - has rarely been studied or fully understood.

Most people would agree that it is bad for one's health, but just how bad is it?

THE EFFECT OF POLLUTANTS
Said atmospheric chemist Mikinori Kuwata, who is with Nanyang Technological University: "To understand the health impact, you have to first understand the haze itself."

While major pollutants such as ozone are present, researchers are still trying to figure out all the other chemicals which make up the smoke - especially particulate matter - that has blown hundreds of kilometres from Sumatra, and how they interact with each other on the way here.

Dr Kuwata said that researchers also refer to air pollution studies elsewhere, for instance the United States, which has its own problems with peat fires. These studies have linked the fires with more hospital visits for heart failure and asthma-related complications.

But the findings cannot be extrapolated to this region because of differences in the chemical composition of pollutants.

For example, temperature and humidity, which change the way chemicals in the air interact with one another, are very different in the tropics compared with the US.

The peat fires in Indonesia also occur in soil of a different composition.


CHARRED: Findings in the US cannot be extrapolated to this region as peat fires in Indonesia occur in soil of a different composition.
PHOTO: CHARRED: Findings in the US cannot be extrapolated to this region as peat fires in Indonesia occur in soil of a different composition.
PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrEGZ4_cEacQiQIRv6_q-KWJGiLorRKnT26dcN6Q0I4qELTmdCWGn1BSvOxSdxTZDlpeVBI3pFtKzo3ouHIeFOfLhV1KfNoPNVXoC1yyY06AvfdZZEZ2QFNwEpObODOdrpITyj6kMneM4/s1600/MY_20150925_OPINION25_P2_1710189-1.jpg
http://mypaper.sg/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/20150925/MY_20150925_OPINION25_P2_1710189.jpg
http://mypaper.sg/opinion/dont-judge-haze-sight-or-smell-20150925


In a study conducted in 2013 - when the three-hour PSI level hit a record 401 during the haze - environmental engineer Rajasekhar Balasubramanian looked at the health risks for a person who has been exposed to haze for a prolonged period of time.

He found that if Singapore were to be exposed for 10 days every year for 70 years to air pollution levels similar to those recorded during the June 20 to June 28 haze period, an average of 18 people in a million could get cancer in their lifetimes.

He also collected air samples between Sept 12 and Oct 2 when there was no haze. The risk of developing cancer fell to 12 in a million people for the non-haze period.

The study was published last year in the journal Environmental Science and Technology.

HEALTH IMPACT
To put things in perspective, on a day when PM2.5 levels hit 100mcg per cubic m, a person will take in around 1,100mcg of these pollutants if he stays outdoors throughout the day.

For comparison, a smoker will inhale between 10,000mcg and 40,000mcg of PM2.5 pollutants for every cigarette consumed.

The average healthy person should not be unduly worried about the levels of haze experienced this year, say xperts.

"We should be objective," said respiratory specialist Yap Wee See of Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital.

"When the haze is at a lower level, slight modifications to your lifestyle to reduce exposure are probably enough," said Dr Yap.

If PM2.5 readings rise above 100, for example, it might be a good idea to move that evening run to an indoor gym.

Children, pregnant women, the elderly and those with chronic conditions should also take greater care to avoid the haze.

Symptoms like eye or throat irritation are caused by short-term exposure to the haze and are usually self-limiting, said Liew Woei Kang of SBCC Baby and Child Clinic.

His advice for coping with the haze?

"Drink lots of water to flush out the inhaled toxins, and take a healthy balanced diet rich in antioxidants." 
By Linette Lai, linettel@sph.com.sg, Published on Sep 25, 2015


STILL OUT AND ABOUT: Orchard Road at 4pm yesterday (24 September 2015)
PHOTO: STILL OUT AND ABOUT: Orchard Road at 4pm yesterday (24 September 2015)
THE worsening haze has prompted all primary and secondary schools to be closed today as a precaution. This is because air quality could hit hazardous levels, said Education Minister Heng Swee Keat yesterday evening.

Those eligible, who will receive two masks each, include holders of MOH's Community Health Assist Scheme Blue cards, Pioneer Generation Card holders, ComCare clients above the age of 62 and those who have been identified with long-term medical issues regardless of age.

"Yet, at the same time, we are hearing some shocking statements made, at senior levels, from Indonesia, with a complete disregard for our people, and their own - PSI levels in parts of Indonesia are at almost 2,000 (PSI above 350 is considered hazardous in Indonesia)," said Mr Shanmugam.

"How is it possible for senior people in government to issue such statements, without any regard for their people, or ours, and without any embarrassment, or sense of responsibility?"
ST PHOTO: NEO XIAOBIN
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcF-3-IfVhXaO999PCyLO01LD_P1nEQm49w_wUQwNpnl1_AbSMxJzVhd29-km7Flhmb2VzhelXIdtv-JvOLnF3zlVYMguQNq7xYiKYhcykacwgD0lfY2z__geOxlN8EgqmjjqmQk0G0PY/s1600/MY_20150925_HAZE25_P_1711233-1.jpg
http://mypaper.sg/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/field/image/20150925/MY_20150925_HAZE25_P_1711233.jpg
http://mypaper.sg/top-stories/schools-close-today-due-haze-20150925


he 24-hour PSI entered the very unhealthy range (201 to 300) across the island at 6pm yesterday (24 September 2015). PHOTO: The 24-hour PSI entered the very unhealthy range (201 to 300) across the island at 6pm yesterday (24 September 2015). By 10pm, it was between 223 and 275, possibly one of the highest levels recorded this year. The three-hour PSI, which is averaged over a shorter period and not tied to health advisories, was 314 at 10pm.



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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



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Sunday, June 23, 2013

Fun despite the gloom

My Paper, Thursday, June 20, 2013, Page A4, News
Source Website:  

GHOST TOWN: This spoof plays on the town sign from the Silent Hill video game.
GHOST TOWN: This spoof plays on the town sign from the Silent Hill video game.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWqpB0xB7X6-JTpcpa54isLI05O_M2g4QFugiRyiuyBsQOWaKwnLyEv0Qt0oBrRKinW9looK3YXsEwDYnIsfeA6Kad6bgvO-Usuq9KW3eFp2vfoBXAsQpcUyZUbGV9TemCJJL7l_zmvR5I/s1600/Fun+despite+the+gloom+-+1.jpg
http://staticc04.insing.com/images/62/e5/10/00/pc_600x450.jpg
My Paper, Thursday, June 20, 2013, Page A4, News


SINGAPORE - Singaporeans aren't letting the smoky air get them down. Instead, they're using humour to get through the situation.

Singapore's Pollutant Standards Index reached 290 at 9pm last night (June 19, 2013).


Survivor's guide to the Singapore haze
PHOTO: Survivor's guide to the Singapore haze
Just rename us The Little Grey not red Dot. This haze is not ending anytime soon, so here's how to beat it.

Shop online during the haze
Stay healthy during the haze by eating more fruits
Have food delivery on hazy days
Make your own family short films
50 beers to drink (and not to drink) at Beerfest
Revive and share your childhood games

Unless someone turns the Singapore Flyer into a giant fan, we can expect Singapore's worst haze in 16 years to remain for longer than a week. While we can't escape the haze, we can minimise our exposure to it and that means cutting down on outdoor activities. And this makes the second half of the June school holidays a stay-in one.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVprZCyBjKmQRQ-jnYg9VTLeX4atAv73YjDQb4byM8U7i2PvxA1V9jHx86k_U-X9Z11BbTR-F54L7jIQ0-NwIuARhy5UgWlhDYnACHte9YABf2Zf7VmQlg3TyXqeNutJI39sD9sKTDFGa/s1600/pc_406x305.jpg
http://static.insing.com/images/e0/e5/10/00/pc_406x305.jpg
http://www.insing.com/


Undercover: A man fashions a 'face mask' with tissue as the haze worsened here yesterday
PHOTO: Undercover: A man fashions a "face mask" with tissue as the haze worsened here yesterday
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My Paper, Thursday, June 20, 2013, Page A4, News


The Little Red Dot has become one big smoggy dot thanks to the highest haze levels in 16 years, peaking at 371 on 20 June 2013. The annual occurrence is caused by smoke from forest fires blown in from neighbouring Indonesia. 

Check out the smoky and sometimes comical pictures of the haze situation in Singapore posted online.


HAZY SINGAPORE: A spoof advertisement shows tourist destinations hidden by the haze.

PHOTO: SMOKE SCREEN: Playing on caper movie Now You See Me, this poster is for a "4-D movie" that you have to watch whether you want to or not.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqeLhKDsGEo0ZnALKmUv8GbpTEFPkuvTvZ-n3WUeoDKBrQxtO4d-r7IchMTVxMXgTHKsUGA24afcTzCPdkMhdImrBunbOxBNbi1D2Ml4KyyznEpbyHI0jXvB2NN6rjqiheHcbVrHhoURx/s1600/Fun+despite+the+gloom+-+3.jpg
My Paper, Thursday, June 20, 2013, Page A4, News


A wedding couple braves the haze to take their photos.
PHOTO: A wedding couple braves the haze to take their photos.
(Photo: Derrick Ong Photography Facebook page)
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http://news.insing.com/gallery/singapores-in-a-haze/id-da3b0400/525339#bd

 
 Maybe tourists won't be so upset if Gardens By The Bay was renamed as this.PHOTO: Maybe tourists won't be so upset if Gardens By The Bay was renamed as this.
(Photo: 9GAG Singapore Facebook page)
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http://news.insing.com/gallery/singapores-in-a-haze/id-da3b0400/525479#bd


Coming to a cinema near you...
 

Translated by MDBG Chinese-English Dictionary, www.mdbg.net, and Google Translate
 

Silent Hill

Posted by crazyrave2kill on Jan 21, 2013
From: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQ0wZRPyqK8


The Noose Saputra Whyoudono, Weather Report (Haze)

Posted by Suhaimi Yusof on Jun 17, 2013
From: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHp4ABTXKP8


Put your complaints about haze aside and help
by Gregory Leow, inSing.com - 21 June 2013 5:23 PM | Updated 5:31 PM


Volunteers from Facebook group “SG Haze Rescue” going door-to-door to give out N95 masks to those in need
PHOTO: Volunteers from Facebook group SG Haze Rescue going door-to-door to give out N95 masks to those in need 
 

Chinese philosopher Confucius said: "Consideration for others is the basis of a good life, a good society."

"Love your neighbour as yourself," Jesus Christ said.

Prophet Muhammad has been quoted as saying, "Woe to those... who, when they have to receive by measure from men, they demand exact full measure, but when they have to give by measure or weight to men, give less than due."

I could go on, but every religion has a form of saying that basically points to the ethic of reciprocity, where one should treat others as one would like others to treat oneself.

The problem is, when we look through the newspapers, the websites and blogs, and even while we are walking on the street, there is a lack of consideration for others and it is magnified many times in critical times like these.

The haze in Singapore and parts of Malaysia and Indonesia has been intolerable over the past few days, and the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reached an incredible record of 401 at noon on Friday 21 June 2013.

There are some encouraging silver linings.

A nod of respect to Facebook group, SG Haze Rescue, which was set up 19 June 2013, to encourage those who want to offer their air-conditioned rooms at home to those in need. It also petitions for contributions of N95 masks.

In less than three days, the group has seen more than 3,000 likes.

Now the snowball of good is starting to get bigger.

There is an online crowd-sourcing Google document where people put up information on where they have found stocks of N95 masks.

Public Garden, a Singapore flea market of independent retailers, have decided to sell their masks at cost price ($0.20 a piece) and not make any profit.

Just today, ChannelNewsAsia published a picture of a Singaporean who decided to give out his box of masks to people around him.


It's already hazy, try to look clearly
PHOTO: It's already hazy, try to look clearly
By Celine Asril, inSing.com - 21 June 2013 5:02 PM | Updated 11:42 PM
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix7jrdr1eP_7sVNc79Jgro-TKSjA0JLnlVbVh-xGApZwxwNuEMtsCbEwtLILqGz9xvS81ibcAOYPRl67HioDB9s_Uvhr_v8BW6LnKw0VzYl7n4PChWEJGH4SjVFROpbaxpRR0fU_AUqldm/s1600/pc_600x450+-+Love+your+Neighbour.jpg
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http://news.insing.com/tabloid/its-already-hazy-try-to-look-clearly/id-f0763f00


LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR
PM Lee also reminded that we ought to remain calm and look out for one another, to watch out for neighbours, especially those who are sickly, older people and young children.

Former Singapore Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong posted a message on Facebook in response, essentially saying we have to be nice to our neighbourly countries, and it is inevitable the Singapore Child will scream (we are truly a child in his eyes, yes?), but as of now, the Singapore Child better learn to survive the tortuous smog and haze, alluding to the need for us to be resilient, which is a trait commonly found in the older generation for sure.

How we behave and react in a national crisis shows our true colours as a society and it doesn't matter whether you're a Singaporean, new citizen, permanent resident or expatriate. We are all breathing the same haze.

The question now that will determine what we are as a society is what your next action will be after reading this article.


When the haze overloads the smoke detector (PSI > 400), People of Singapore Insist that:<br>By right PSI stand for Pollutant Standard Index. By left PSI is Please Stay Indoor. By middle PSI means Please Stop Indonesia. Of course to no avail ..... and millions of People Suffer Injustice.
PHOTO: Luis Royo Wallpaper 1280x800 Luis, Royo, Illustrations, Artwork
Posted by Go Go Pics - 2012
When the haze overloads the smoke detector (PSI > 400), People of Singapore Insist that:
By right PSI stand for Pollutant Standard Index. By left PSI is Please Stay Indoor. By middle PSI means Please Stop Indonesia. Of course to no avail ..... and millions of People Suffer Injustice.

To some, we are still young noisy "children" of Singapore and should learn to accept "nature". So sad but challenging. Ah boy and ah girl, we will try to make it together. Lau Pa and Lau Ma will get the milk powder. The journey will be tough but our feet will stamp out a path and brave the uneven road. When you grow up, be kind to those who are suffering and needs help. Lets make the world a more harmonious place to live in.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-ZWdopQjrH8Xhru4HkX9MxZa22zYx4ZzMCq3VxM5zO1FlGD1Hx89cPpf6I7oftUxlZRnkZFHu34jH4ozqhyphenhyphendjVsdbdaTTvdA3IimMxpZZ3Qy1yLE6CajlMvxKkY-N3b2U_8er2fHbLsE/s1600/wallpapers_dead-moon-8.jpg
http://data0.eklablog.com/coups-de-coeur/perso/wallpapers_dead-moon-8.jpg
http://gogo.webhop.net/luis-royo/



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