Community groups and humanitarian organisations in Singapore are stepping up efforts to support vulnerable residents as hazy conditions continue to affect parts of the city-state.
About 400 N95 masks were distributed during a Meet-the-People Session and house visits in Chong Pang on Sept 16, as residents were reminded to take precautions while air quality remained a concern.
Senior Minister K Shanmugam said the haze situation was not at a critical level but noted that people with existing health conditions could feel its effects more strongly. He encouraged residents to take necessary precautions and look out for one another.
The National Environment Agency said the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index remained in the moderate range on Sept 17, with readings ranging from 66 to 92 across Singapore at 3pm.
The Singapore Red Cross has also expanded its support for vulnerable communities affected by heat and haze. Its first tranche of assistance is expected to reach about 700 people across Singapore.
Around 200 seniors aged 70 and above who live alone are receiving air purifiers and Heat & Haze Support Packs. Some will also receive three months of electricity bill assistance to help cover the additional cost of running the air purifiers.
Another 500 people from vulnerable groups will receive care packs containing coconut water, isotonic drinks, ready-to-eat food, basic hygiene products and other practical supplies.
The initiative is intended to help recipients stay hydrated, reduce unnecessary outdoor activities and follow health advisories during periods of poorer air quality.
The Red Cross has also equipped volunteers and staff working in affected areas with N95 masks when required.
Health authorities, however, say N95 masks are generally not necessary for short periods of haze exposure, such as commuting between home and school or work, or when staying indoors.
Healthy people who need to remain outdoors for several hours may consider wearing a well-fitting N95 mask when air quality reaches the hazardous range. Elderly people, pregnant women and those with severe heart or lung conditions are advised to consult their doctors about mask use if prolonged outdoor exposure is unavoidable.
Singapore’s recent haze has been linked to smoke from fires in parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan, with weather conditions and wind direction affecting the movement of smoke towards the island.
Authorities and community organisations are continuing to monitor conditions while providing additional support to people who may be more vulnerable to the effects of heat and poor air quality.
Leave a Reply