Healthy Indoor Air

For the average person (according to the United States’ Environmental Protection Agency), indoor air pollution from particles or gases is more hazardous to human health than outdoor air pollution. Outdoor air contributes the most particles to indoor air.  Additionally, there are several other contributing sources, including wood burning fireplaces, tobacco smoke, radon, asbestos, certain building materials and furnishings, and numerous consumer products, such as pesticides or scented candles.

Excessive moisture and poor ventilation of the living space can also contribute to indoor air pollution. As consumer products age, they breakdown releasing the intricate chemicals which then alter indoor air quality and contribute to household dust.

What you can do:

• Avoid use of wood burning fireplace
• Avoid use of air fresheners, scented candles, moth balls, and dryer sheets
• Store solvents away from the living space
• Reconsider use of pesticides in and around the home
• Control pests using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques
• Maintain heating/cooling/ventilation systems and clean air ducts
• Use a Carbon Monoxide monitor
• Test for Radon in the home and correct if necessary
• Use a free standing HEPA filter on a regular basis, especially if the air quality is worsened by wildfires
• Use a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner and damp mop floors weekly
• Use low or zero Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) products in and around the home
• Use a doormat or strongly consider leaving shoes outside
• Purchase home products free of flame retardants, stain repellents, and phthalates
• If asbestos is in the home, hire professionals to remove it
• Wear a N95 mask during home renovations