Today in Hong Kong

This is an email I got at work this morning:

Dear All,
The API continues to be over 100. Children on the API list should stay indoors. Persons with existing heart or respiratory illnesses are advised to reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities. Please remind all students to drink water, they sometimes forget when it is cold outside but we need to keep them all well hydrated. Thank you for your attention.

I tend to forget things like this now, that used to really strike me when I first arrived. API is the pollution index, and when it's over 100 (as it has often been lately), some students can't go outside for recess. We have an "API list" of students with asthma or whose parents request that they stay indoors. As beautiful as Hong Kong is, the pollution from China is part of daily conversation, like talking about the weather. I think this email also shows the concern and properness that Hong Kong people show when dealing with children. Of course it's good for kids to drink water, but in the US, I never received email reminders about things like this!

Here is an excerpt from the Hong Kong Observatory website, where I check the weather:

As Hong Kong is being continuously affected by a cold winter monsoon, people are advised to put on warm clothes and to avoid adverse health effects due to the cold weather. You must also ensure adequate indoor ventilation. If you must go out, please avoid prolonged exposure to wintry winds. If you know of elderly persons or persons with chronicmedical conditions staying alone, please call or visit them occasionally to check if they need any assistance. Make sure heaters are safe before use, and place them away from any combustibles. Do not light fires indoors as a means to keep warm. Whatever the temperature, please ensure that there is plenty of fresh air in your room when you are using an old-type gas water heater.

I just find this kind of weather warning with its description, language, and concern for things like this very typically Hong Kong. It usually just makes me roll my eyes now.