Hazy days – preparing for the worst, hoping for the best

IPOH: The air quality here may not be as bad as certain parts of the country, but residents have already started taking precautions.

Businesswoman AC Lim, in her 60s, said she wears a face mask whenever she goes outdoors.

“I am already accustomed to wearing a face mask since the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Whenever I have to go out, I will wear it. It may not be as hazy as in some other states but it is still better to be safe than sorry.

“The temperature is also quite high these days and it can get stuffy with a mask on, but I would rather not fall sick,” she said when met.

According to the Environment Department, the Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in several areas have reached unhealthy levels over the past few days.

These areas include Kuala Lumpur, Kelantan and Johor.

In Perak, the API is at a moderate level with readings of between 60 and 71 in Ipoh, 73 and 84 in Manjung, and 59 and 86 in Taiping.

The air quality has showed signs of improvement since Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Lim said she would prepare some traditional herbal drinks at home to boost her immune system and general health.

“It is best to keep hydrated,” she said.

Technician S. Kumar, 44, said he bought an air purifier to ensure better air quality in his home.

“While there’s nothing much I can do about the haze, I can still have some form of control at home. I can be assured that the air purifier will deal with air pollutants in my house,” said the father of one.

Kumar also said he would drink lots of water as he often works outside.

“I always bring along a big bottle of water. Some of my friends have recommended drinking coconut water during the current hot weather,” he added.

Perak environment committee chairman Teh Kok Lim said people should stay indoors to minimise exposure to the hot weather whenever possible.

“People should not carry out open burning and should minimise the use of motor vehicles to reduce carbon emissions.

“It has been raining over the past two days, and this helped reduce the haze and also brought down the temperature.

“We can see and feel the negative effects and impact of climate change. It is high time to start and continue saving our planet in a more aggressive and proactive way,” he said.