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"Persons who are particularly susceptible to these effects, such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory problems, need to be aware of outdoor levels of air pollution," said Dr. Neil Schachter, past president of the American Lung Association of the City of New York and author of Life and Breath. "Even those who are healthy should avoid long-term outdoor exposure on a bad air day."
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But, we also need to pay attention to indoor air quality as well. Although there is the potential for outdoor particles to make their way inside the home, many other particles start in the home and stay there unless you have a way to reduce them, notes Steve Ramos, featured home inspector on HGTV's House Detective. According to the EPA, indoor levels of some pollutants may be two to five times higher than outdoor levels.
"If you're trying to avoid outdoor pollution by staying indoors, take the proper steps to help improve the air quality in your home," said Ramos. "Remember to follow the four C's - Control, Change, Close and Clean - to help reduce indoor air pollutants."
To check your city's outdoor air quality on a daily basis, visit AIRNow.gov. For more tips on improving your indoor air quality, and to enter to win a home inspection - including an air quality assessment - with House Detective Steve Ramos plus $10,000, visit www.Filtrete.com.
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A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M's core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms - often in combination - to a wide array of customer needs. With $25 billion in sales, 3M employs 76,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com.
(1) American Lung Association: http://www.lungusa.org/site/c.dvLUK9O0E/b.315948/k.7E7D/Outdoor_Air_Pollution.htm
(2) The U.S. EPA, NOAA, NPS, tribal, state, and local agencies developed the AIRNow.gov to provide the public with easy access to national air quality information: http://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=static.background
(3) According to AirNow.gov, code orange means the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups
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-- CONTROL or limit tracking pollutants from the outdoors into the home by leaving your shoes at the door. To increase your airflow and help control humidity levels, move furniture away from walls and opening closet doors. Finally, identify known outdoor allergen sources and remove them from landscaping around the home.
SOURCE 3M
