Barbados is once again under a hazy veil as plumes of Sahara dust sweep across the island, turning blue skies into a muted grey and leaving many residents reaching for inhalers. While the dust is an eyesore, it can also trigger real health issues, especially for people with asthma, allergies or other respiratory conditions.
So, what should you do if you are in Barbados right now? We have weathered these dust events before, but with a little preparation and care, we can all breathe a bit easier, literally.
Here’s a quick guide to staying safe:
- Limit outdoor time, as if you can see the haze, your lungs can feel it. Try to stay indoors during the dustiest parts of the day, especially if you have asthma, sinus issues or other respiratory ailments.
- It’s tempting to open up the house to catch a breeze especially when it is humid but that also invites fine dust particles indoors. Use fans or air conditioning with clean filters to keep cool instead.
- Surgical or KN95 masks still have a use! It might feel like a throwback to pandemic times but wearing a mask outside during the haze, is a smart move especially if you are walking.
- Dust can dry out your skin, throat and eyes. Try to drink more water than usual, use eye drops if needed and apply a simple moisturizer to keep your skin protected.
- Check in on elderly neighbours or anyone who may need help managing asthma or getting to medical care.
