10 important precautions to take because the damned haze might be back earlier this year

Last Updated on 2016-05-20 , 9:39 am

Remember last September where N95 masks became a reigning fashion favourite? Yup, and I’m sure that recently, most of you have smelled the all too familiar haze. With the PSI reading hitting above 80 (unhealthy level) in the south part of Singapore, it seems like the hazy season might be coming earlier than we expected.

However, while Indonesia was the main culprit for the haze last year, it seems like the pollution this time might be from Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo or even from us. Local vegetation fires could have contributed to the haze. While NEA says that the air quality is expected to stay in the moderate range, here are 10 precautions to take note because you never know when the haze will hit you.

Start getting your hands on N95 Masks
Remember the time when getting your hands on these masks were so difficult? Reason being everyone was vying for those masks and most shops became out of stock. Either that, or they decide to mark up the prices just because they can. So before that happens, stock your house up with N95 masks now that the haze may potentially get worse. Then you won’t have to rush around in search of them when everyone starts buying the masks once again.

Limit outdoor workouts
With the haze possibly contaminating the air, it might not be the best to go for your usual daily runs or swims. The amount of toxins you’ll breathe in can be extremely harmful and can cause respiratory attacks. So try to stay away from outdoor sports (I understand it’s almost impossible), and find other alternatives such as going rock climbing at Kallang.

Renew your gym membership
With the limited amount of activities you can do outdoors, it’s time to renew your gym membership and sign up for classes. Who knows? You might just be saying hello at your new found love. The haze should be no excuse as to why you can’t keep that hot body in check.

Start searching for indoor places to chill
Since going out is no longer an option, finding new places indoors will be your next big adventure. I mean, who is to say we can’t have the same amount of fun indoors? After all, it’s the company that matters. Start searching on fun indoor activities to do, such as visiting We Are The Furballs if you’re a huge fan of dogs, or finding a mall that literally has everything, such VivoCity or Suntec City. This is especially important if your house does not have air-conditioning.

Drink loads of water
If you’re the kind of person who hates drinking water, it’s time to start. Haze contains lots of harmful toxic that can cause parched throat and cough. It’s essential to gulp down loads of water to flush out the toxins that your body absorbed.

That said, cut down on alcohol and cigarettes
That means instead of clubbing every Ladies Night, Fridays and Saturdays, try sticking to one day per week. Alcohol promotes fluid loss and this can cause your body to be more prone to viruses. Same goes for smoking. With the haze affecting your respiratory system, smoking will only cause your body to have a harder time in flushing out the toxins.

Close all window and doors
Most of us love opening our windows bright and early in the morning to let the fresh air seep in and clear out all the ‘dirty’ air. But with the haze coming back, the air might no longer be as fresh as you think. So refrain from opening your windows too much during this period of time.

Take note of PSI Readings
It’s important to keep track of the quality of air. This allows you to know whether it’s safe to head outside without having to wear a mask. Just for easier reference, if the PSI is above 100, it is considered unhealthy. Above 200 is considered very unhealthy and the air is hazardous if the reading goes beyond 300.

Invest in an air purifier
The tiny particles in the haze that seep into your house can stay in the air for a period of time. With an air purifier, it helps to keep the particulate levels low and regulate the air, enabling you to continue breathing in fresh air.

Turn on the air-con
Haze is the perfect excuse as to why you HAVE to turn on the air conditioner. Since all windows and doors are closed, it can get really stuffy and warm, so use the air-con to keep your body feeling cool and happy. The best part? Taking a nap while the air-con is on is simply perfection.

Top Image: Lodimup / Shutterstock.com