Dry conditions in Southeast Asia are expected to persist through the coming week, heightening concerns about potential haze affecting Singapore if fire activity continues in the region, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA). As of 1pm on Sunday, August 9, the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) in Singapore’s central area stood at 81, placing it in the moderate range. This follows recent dry spells that have triggered increased fire activity, with hotspots and smoke plumes detected over parts of Sumatra and Kalimantan in Indonesia. The NEA warned that under prevailing southeasterly winds, smoke haze could drift toward Singapore, particularly from southern regions of Sumatra. The NEA emphasized that it would continue monitoring the situation closely and release additional updates if conditions change. Should the 24-hour PSI exceed 100, entering the unhealthy range, the agency will issue daily haze advisories, providing forecasts to help the public plan their activities accordingly. These advisories will include the 24-hour PSI forecast, enabling individuals to adjust their schedules and minimize exposure to poor air quality. The NEA confirmed that the Haze Task Force (HTF), comprising 28 public agencies, is prepared to implement its action plans if air quality deteriorates. Chaired by the NEA, the HTF regularly reviews and updates strategies to mitigate the impact of haze on Singapore. The task force convened twice this year, once in early January after fires in eastern Johor and again in April, to refine its response protocols ahead of the annual dry season beginning in June. Public health guidelines advise residents to check the one-hour PM2.5 concentration levels as an indicator of current air quality, alongside the corresponding personal health guidance provided by the NEA. These readings can fluctuate significantly throughout the day, especially during periods of transboundary haze. To reduce the effects of haze exposure, the public is encouraged to limit outdoor activities and physical exertion, stay hydrated, and ensure that individuals with chronic heart or lung conditions have their medications accessible. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and children, are urged to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms or feel unwell. The warning from the NEA follows an upgrade by the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) to Level 2 for the southern ASEAN region, indicating an increased likelihood of transboundary haze. This level signals rising hotspot activity, with moderate to dense smoke haze observed over two or more consecutive days. In response, Singapore’s Sustainability and Environment Minister Grace Fu stated that the nation is prepared to activate its contingency plans if transboundary haze affects local air quality. She noted that national mask reserves are adequate and that schools, preschools, and residential and care facilities are equipped with air purifiers to safeguard public health. Preschools across Singapore have taken proactive measures to prepare for potential worsening air quality. Some institutions are monitoring air quality readings as frequently as every two hours, while others have arranged indoor activities and installed air purifiers. For instance, EtonHouse Pre-School Upper Bukit Timah checks air quality readings every two hours and is ready to shift all outdoor activities indoors if the 24-hour PSI surpasses 100. The preschool has designated enclosed spaces for children and is equipped with air purifiers in classrooms and shared learning areas. Masks are kept on standby, though availability may depend on the evolving situation. Similarly, Little Seeds Preschool has planned a variety of indoor activities to keep children engaged if outdoor play must be halted due to haze. Each classroom and activity room is fitted with air purifiers, allowing children to explore different learning environments even when confined indoors. My First Skool collaborates closely with parents to monitor children’s health, ensuring that those with respiratory conditions have necessary medications like inhalers on hand. Teachers are trained to observe children’s well-being and notify parents immediately if any discomfort arises. Preschools have also updated their records of children with asthma or other chronic conditions, ensuring staff are aware of specific needs and appropriate actions to take if required. While air purifiers help maintain indoor air quality, some preschools acknowledge that children might still be exposed to haze while traveling between home and school. Despite these challenges, institutions remain committed to protecting the health and safety of young students amidst the ongoing haze threat.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
SG
