Singapore haze highlights trade-offs in keeping homes safe and comfortable

Singapore had 18 consecutive days of unhealthy air from Oct 5 to 22, its worst haze episode since 2015.

The National Environment Agency advises people to reduce exposure by staying indoors and closing windows and doors.

But closed windows can make homes hot and stuffy, especially for older people without air-conditioning, while opening them during haze lets particles inside.

Fans can improve comfort but do not remove haze particles or bring in fresh air, and air-conditioning alone does not guarantee good filtration or ventilation.

Cooling, filtration and ventilation need to work together to protect health without making indoor spaces uncomfortable.

Community haze shelters are available when the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index exceeds 200, and institutions can use purifiers and portable coolers where appropriate.

The expert says preparedness should account for people’s needs and actual conditions indoors; the NEA expected wet weather to suppress haze until Oct 29.