High demand for air purifiers, masks amid haze warning

John Leong Channel NewsAsia 31 Mar 14;

SINGAPORE: Demand for air purifiers and N95 face masks at retailers remains high.

This comes amid warnings that the haze this year could be worse than last year's record-breaking levels.

At its highest in June last year, the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) hit 401.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) warned earlier this month that a regional dry spell, early burning in Indonesia and erratic weather could make it worse this year.

It appears people are determined not be caught off guard.

Retailers said demand for air purifiers has increased seven-fold from January to this month, compared with the same period last year.

Electronics chain Courts and supermarket operator FairPrice said that new stock should arrive sometime next month.

While it may be difficult for people to get their hands on air purifiers at the moment, there should be no such problems when it comes to N95 masks.

Earlier this month, the government said it had stockpiled 16 million masks.

If the need arises, these supplies will be distributed to retailers such as health and beauty chain Watsons.

Daniel Teo, general manager at Watsons Singapore, said: "Now there's definitely sufficient stock. Already with the early warnings, we've seen a good uptake, with double-digit growth. And this time round, I think we're better prepared.”

The haze last year saw several ground-up initiatives take flight, such as SG Haze Rescue.

These involved volunteers helping to distribute masks to needy Singaporeans.

Watsons said it would be open to working with such groups, if approached.

This could include contributing products to the cause.

While stock of N95 masks is healthy this year, retailers are urging consumers to only buy what they need.

If required, a cap may be introduced so that everyone who needs a mask can get one.

- CNA/xq