Some small and large changes around your home will ensure and you have the best air to breathe reduces the amount of pollution affecting the whole Borough.
Some air pollution hazards in the home can have effects on your health, so it is important to keep you and those around you safe.
Garden fire
If you burn leaves or rubbish in your garden it releases harmful particulates into the air.
Gas boiler
At times, these can produce Carbon Monoxide (CO).
Make sure your home is as safe as it can be, have your boiler checked regularly by a qualified gas engineer. This will make sure it is burning fuel safely and efficiently and minimise health risks such as carbon monoxide poisoning.
Bathroom steam
Steam in a bathroom can lead to damp which encourages mould to grow. Where possible use bathroom fans or keep windows open when showering or bathing to help remove steam from the room and stop mould from growing.
Cooking
Cooking is one of the main sources of indoor air pollution. When we cook using gas we generate nitrogen oxide and other particulates, which are the same pollutants that you find outdoors. Using an extractor fan or opening a window or door will help to ventilate the room
Log burners and indoor fires
Burning wood and coal in a stove or open fire releases particulate matter. This has an impact on the air-quality in your home and can irritate your nose and throat, giving you a cough or breathing problems.
If you have a log burner or open fire, there are a few things to remember, to keep them as safe as possible:
- Always use dry wood. Wood that is wet or damp produces more smoke.
- Log burners and open fires should be serviced regularly, ensuring they are operating as they should.
- Chimneys should be cleaned, ensuring effective ventilation and that your home is safe from fire risk.
Smoking
Smoking indoors leads to high levels of pollutants within the home.
The leftover gas and particles from smoking that settle can cause health hazards. In particular where rooms have a lot of fabric, such as carpet, curtains and seating.
Useful Links
- Indoor air quality (DEFRA).
- Indoor air quality at home (NICE).