Tips For A Clean Air Checkup (NAPSA)—Many people may be surprised to learn that indoor levels of some pollutants may be two to five times higher than outdoor levels. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified indoor air pollution as one of the top-five urgent environmental risks to public health. Dr. Neil Schachter, past president of the American Lung Association of the City of New York and authorof “Life and Breath,” offers these simple tips to help you breathe easier: 1. Avoid cleaning products with ammonia and chlorine— Some household chemicals may irritate the respiratory tract in people sensitive to them. They can cause watery eyes and sore throats and can even trigger coughing and shortness of breath. Choose milder yet effective cleaning aids such as baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide and citrusoils. 2. Houseplants...a clean air ally—Some common indoor houseplants, such as bamboo, English ivy and peacelily, provide a natural way to help fight against rising levels of indoor air pollution by absorbing some potentially harmful gases. A 6inch potted green plant can clean an average room of excess carbon dioxide in eight hours. 38. Restrict your furry friends—People whoareallergic to cats and dogsare actually allergic to the dander that pets shed. To help minimize exposure to pet dander, keep pets out of the bedroom—especially off the bed. 4. Turn up the air-conditioning—Air conditioners not only cool the air, they can help Some air filters are designed to help capture microscopic allergens andparticles in the home. reduce humidity levels, which can help keep mold from growing. 5. Change yourair filters—A high-performancefilter, such as the Filtrete 1” Advanced Allergen Reduction Filter from 3M, can help capture particles such as pollen, smoke, dust mite debris, mold spores and pet dander. Remember to change thefilter every three months—ideally at the start of every season. 6. Turn off the humidifier—Room air humidifiers are moisture-generating sources that can spread bacteria, mold spores and chemical deposits. Keep relative humidity between 30 and 50 percent to help prevent mold growth. 7. Leave shoes outside— Avoid bringing outdoor pollutants indoors by removing your shoes before entering the house. For more tips, visit www. Filtrete.com.
