The sky is a little bit darker, don’t you think?
Dusts and smokes are a common occurrence to us, Cebuanos. But this time, the abnormal amount of dust, smoke, and other dry particles in the atmosphere is a phenomenon we should all be aware of.
This atmospheric phenomenon is called the Haze. The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) – Region 7 have confirmed it and are taking actions to study the matter.
An air quality test is currently being done to see if there will be counteractions like having the people in Cebu wear masks.
Effects of Haze
- Eye inflammation like irritated or watering eyes
- Sneezing, stuffy or running nose
- Dryness of throat or coughing
- Headache, dizziness
- Chest pain
- Diarrhea and/or stomach upset, if drinking water sources are contaminated by dense haze and the water is consumed without further treatment;
- Anxiety or stress
What to do?
- Stay indoors as much as possible, and always keep your doors & windows closed.
- Avoid jogging or running outside.
- Wear masks when commuting or when exposed outside (N95 dust mask is recommended).
- Drink lots of water and/or Vitamin C for immunity boost.
- Watch or read the news for updates on the haze.
This phenomenon is a possible effect of the forest fires occurring in Indonesia.
We are part of the environment. There are no boundaries when it comes to these things. Whatever country or race you’re from, we are all affected.
Let’s all do our part and protect the environment. Raise awareness one laag at a time. Raise the flag of a responsible laagan!
