Haze shelters to open, N95 masks to be distributed amid worsening haze

Singapore's haze situation is worsening, prompting the government to take action. N95 masks will be distributed to vulnerable residents starting October 14, while air-conditioned rooms in community clubs and some Residents’ Committee centres will open to offer a respite from the smoke. The People’s Association (PA) will distribute the masks to eligible Singaporeans, including seniors, pregnant women, children and teenagers, and those with medical conditions such as asthma.

Additionally, mask vending machines will be installed at 37 public transport hubs and social services’ offices to supplement PA’s efforts. The sharp increase in PM2.5 levels, which reached a very high range of 284, led to the activation of these measures. With the possibility of the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) entering the Very Unhealthy range, the government deemed it necessary to provide masks to those at risk.

Expectant mothers, children, and those with medical conditions can collect the masks only at PA venues, while family members or friends can collect the masks on their behalf using the eligible person’s NRIC. N95 masks will be made available progressively at designated collection points, subject to stock replenishment. AC rooms in community clubs and select Residents’ Committee and Residents’ Network Centres have been designated as haze shelters for the public to find relief.

If the PSI enters the hazardous range of above 300, the opening hours of these shelters will be extended to 10 pm. The dense smoke haze from fires in Kalimantan has been observed drifting towards Singapore, with smoke conditions also reported over Sumatra. The 24-hour PSI for Singapore is expected to remain in the Unhealthy to the Very Unhealthy range of above 200 on October 15.