Air pollution and health
Certain weather conditions can lead to a build up of air pollutants associated with emissions from transport and burning fuel. These raised levels of air pollution can affect health.
Air pollution alerts text service
You can receive high air pollution alerts free to your mobile phone to let you know when air pollution levels are high.
To subscribe to the 'Air Aware' service, text AIR to 079 8440 5722.
Alerts are free, but text messages to the service cost your normal standard rate.
Advice for people with health conditions
Most people aren't affected by short term peaks in air pollution. But some people with existing heart or lung conditions, may experience increased symptoms.
If you think you may be affected by air pollution levels, you should consider modifying your treatment when symptoms increase and speak to your doctor if this is not effective.
You could reduce the time you spend outdoors or avoid busy, congested streets.
If your breathing is affected during cold, calm conditions or on hot, sunny days, you should:
- avoid strenuous outdoor activity
- make sure you have medication, such as an asthma inhaler
Children with asthma should be able to take part in games.
They may need to increase their use of reliever medicines before participating.
They shouldn't need to stay away from school.
If you suffer from a heart condition and notice a change in your symptoms, you should get medical advice.
Weather conditions
During winter, cold, still conditions can increase the level of pollutants at ground level.
In summer, hot weather, without much wind can also lead to raised concentrations of pollutants.
Air quality measurement
Air pollution is classified for particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and ozone, as follows:
- low (one to three)
- moderate (four to six)
- high (seven to nine)
- very high (10)
Checking air quality in your area
For more information about current levels of air pollution, its causes and effects, go to:
Action you can take to reduce air pollution
To help reduce air pollution:
- avoid burning solid fuels if possible and burn only smokeless fuels in smoke control areas
- avoid lighting bonfires, especially while pollution levels are high
- walk or cycle rather than drive
When you have to drive:
- switch off the engine if you're stationary for more than a couple of minutes
- drive smoothly, this saves you fuel and money and your vehicle emits less pollution
- avoid overfilling the petrol tank and spilling petrol, this evaporates and releases hydrocarbons that are toxic and form ozone