This is it - Blog Action Day! COPD And Indoor Air Pollution
On October 15th, bloggers around the web will unite to put a single important issue on everyone’s mind - the environment. Every blogger will post about the environment in their own way and relating to their own topic. Our aim is to get everyone talking towards a better future.
We are all concerned about air quality and pollution in the environment around us - we need to consider the area where we have the greatest control - our homes.
The American Lung Association offers a fact sheet giving the Top Ten Tips For A Healthy Home.
1) Declare your home a smoke-free zone. Secondhand smoke can cause serious health problems, especially for children. Ask smokers to take it outside.
2) Good ventilation reduces indoor air pollution. Leave doors between rooms open most of the time for better air circulation. Open windows when possible to allow for a good supply of outdoor air. Install exhaust fans in bathrooms to remove moisture and chemicals from the house.
3) Keep humidity levels low with a dehumidifier or air conditioner, as needed. Clean both regularly so they don't become a source of pollutants themselves. Fix all leaks and drips in the home, as standing water and high humidity encourages the growth of mold and other biological pollutants.
4) To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, have all fuel burning appliances inspected by a qualified technician once a year. Install a carbon monoxide detector near your sleeping rooms.
5) To keep dust mites and other allergens to a minimum, clean regularly. Wash bedding materials in hot water (at least 130°). Consider replacing carpet with area rugs that can be taken up and washed often.
6) Fit your gas range with a hood fan that exhausts the air outside. Use the fan or open a window when cooking to remove gas fumes.
7) Check commercial cleaning products and pesticides for toxic ingredients, and use according to manufacturers directions. Keep your home well ventilated when using these products. Consider switching to less toxic alternatives.
8) Test your home for radon. Use a radon test kit labeled "Meets EPA requirements".
9) Never leave a car or lawn mower running in an attached garage or shed. Avoid the use of unvented heaters or charcoal grills indoors.
10) Call your local Lung Association at 1-800-LUNG-USA for more information about avoiding indoor air hazards in the home.
For more tips on how to reduce indoor air pollution, the American Lung Association® Health House Program and 3M are offering “A Guide for Creating a Healthier Home.” This booklet can be obtained free-of-charge by sending an e-mail with your name and mailing address to: 3mfiltrete@3mservice.montagenet.com, by calling 1-800-388-3458, or by downloading this file
To read a related post, please visit my blog
At Home With Grandmother Wren
