What commuters can do to protect themselves from haze

Make this your preferred source to get more updates from this publisher on Google.

The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday urged the public, particularly those who spend long hours on the road, to take precautions amid the health risks posed by haze.

Citing a report from the Office of Civil Defense, the DOH said areas under close air quality monitoring include Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Cebu, Bohol, and all provinces in Mindanao.

To protect themselves from the effects of haze, the DOH urged the public to:

• Wear an N95 mask. Alternatively, use a damp handkerchief or cloth to cover the mouth and nose, or wear a double surgical mask.
• Wash the eyes with clean water or saline solution, and avoid rubbing them while outdoors.
• Drink plenty of water to help flush irritants from the throat.
• Take time to rest in enclosed spaces away from road smoke and dust.

The DOH also advised the public to call the national emergency hotline 911 or local emergency hotlines if they need assistance.

“Paalala para sa mga pampublikong drayber, delivery riders, street vendors, at field workers na madalas nasa kalsada, sundin ang mga gabay at paalala mula sa DOH ngayong may haze,” the DOH said.

(Reminders for public utility drivers, delivery riders, street vendors, and field workers who are often on the road: follow the guidelines and reminders from the DOH while haze is present.)

“Tandaan, laging unahing protektahan ang iyong kalusugan!” it added.

(Remember, always prioritize protecting your health!)

The DOH said the observed haze is likely smoke and transboundary haze from forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, carried into the country by the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat). —VBL, GMA News