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Public urged to wear protective masks, eye protection, as haze reaches Metro Cebu

The Environmental Management Bureau in Region 7 (EMB-7) has advised the public to personal protective equipments (PPEs) such as dust mask or eye goggles to protect themselves from air pollutants.

In a statement, EMB-7 thru Engr. Cindylyn Pepito-Ochea confirmed that Metro Cebu is “currently experiencing hazy weather condition caused by the forest fire in Indonesia and enhanced by Habagat.

“Haze caused by forest fires can cause air pollution, which can bring about health risks for respiratory tract infections and cardiac ailments,” Pepito said.

As of 8:00 a.m. today, Sept. 18, monitoring data for PM 2.5 showed a reading of 56 micrograms per normal cubic meter which is above the safe guideline value of 50 micrograms per normal cubic meter.

PM 2.5 is a particulate matter or a dust particle measuring 2.5 micrometers in diameter (about 3% the diameter of a human hair).

Since they are so small and light, PM 2.5 tend to stay longer in the air than heavier particles. This increases the chances of humans and animals inhaling them into the bodies and might bypass the nose and throat and penetrate deep into the lungs. Some may even enter the circulatory system.

“If you have nothing to do outside, stay indoors and always keep your windows and doors closed. Do not jog nor run outside as the body ingests more pollutants when active,” EMB-7 said in their statement.

Staff Report

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