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🇸🇬 Singapore /Environment & Climate

Singapore Red Cross expands heat and haze support with air purifiers and aid packs

From CNA · () English

Translated from English and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

News Official statement Ongoing story
  • The Singapore Red Cross will provide air purifiers, support packs and electricity-bill assistance to vulnerable seniors and other at-risk groups facing heat and haze.
  • The first phase will reach 700 people, including 200 seniors living alone and enrolled in Red Cross support programmes.
  • The initiative follows unhealthy PSI readings in three regions and daily haze advisories from the National Environment Agency.

The Singapore Red Cross is stepping up support for people facing worsening heat and haze, offering air purifiers, care packs and help with electricity bills.

The first phase is expected to reach 700 people across Singapore. Over the next few days, 200 seniors over 70 who live alone and take part in the Red Cross’s HoME+ or Medical Chaperone & Transportation programmes will receive air purifiers and heat-and-haze support packs. Those who need it will also receive three months of electricity-bill assistance to help run the machines.

Another 500 people from vulnerable groups will receive packs containing coconut water, isotonic drinks, ready-to-eat food, hygiene items and other practical supplies. The Red Cross said the assistance aims to help recipients stay hydrated, limit unnecessary outdoor activity and follow health guidance from the National Environment Agency.

When temperatures rise and air quality deteriorates, the consequences can be far more serious for those already at risk.

· Benjamin WilliamThe Singapore Red Cross secretary-general and chief executive explained why vulnerable groups need additional support.

The response builds on a programme launched in April, when volunteers distributed cooling towels, masks, water tumblers and portable fans while sharing health information. Community befrienders will receive training to advise beneficiaries, identify signs of heat- or haze-related distress and respond appropriately.

The 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index entered the unhealthy range of 101 to 200 in three regions at 7 a.m. on Sept. 4, the first breach of that level since Oct. 8, 2023. The development led the National Environment Agency to begin issuing daily haze advisories, including forecasts for the following day.

Singapore Red Cross secretary-general and chief executive Benjamin William said: “When temperatures rise and air quality deteriorates, the consequences can be far more serious for those already at risk.” He added: “No one should have to face these conditions alone.”

No one should have to face these conditions alone.

· Benjamin WilliamWilliam urged the public to support people affected by the heat and haze.
About this summary

Originally published by CNA in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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