-
Don't let water stand in your house, lest it serves as a breeding ground for bacteria and insects.
-
Keep the house clean as a habit, as this would discourage the
breeding of dust mites, pollens, animal dander, and other allergens,
lest you may have to take anti allergic drugs
-
Disinfect and clean the basement's floor drain at regular intervals. Don't let water seep in and keep it dehumidified between 30 – 50 percent.
-
Be wary of installing room furnishings that accumulate dust and can't be ordinarily cleaned, if be cleaned at all.
-
If possible, use central vacuum systems vented to the outdoors. Alternatively, use vacuum systems with high efficiency filters.
-
When using household chemicals viz. (paints, varnishes, and
wax), purchase them in limited quantity, follow the instructions for
usage carefully, and discard any unused/leftover chemicals properly.
-
When installing a carpet, choose the carpet retailer wisely.
Ensure usage of low-emitting adhesives, keep the room well ventilated
and run mechanical ventilation equipment running for 2-3 days.
-
Install a dedicated outdoor air supply for any combustion appliances you use.
-
Prefer to use 'exterior-grade' pressed wood products.
-
Eat a nutritious diet, rich in calcium, iron and vitamins.
-
If there's lead paint in your house, leave it as it is, if it's in good condition. Further, don't attempt to remove it yourself.
-
Seek professional help to control and clean up harmful agents such as Radon (Rn), Asbestos or Lead in your home.
-
If possible, try inculcating a habit of either cleaning your
shoes before going inside or not wearing them in at all. This might
prevent a lot of contaminants to find a way into your house.
-
Avoid burning charcoal or kerosene heaters indoors.
-
Refresh the indoor air at least about 2–3 times in a day.
-
Dry up your bathroom by running a fan for 15 minuets after a shower.
-
Repair leaky ceilings and roofs, walls, and basements.
-
Ensure that your house is not in negative pressure (i.e. it doesn't try to suck in air from the outside through fireplaces or other openings).
-
Washing bedding materials, pillowcases and blankets in hot water once a week can reduce dust mites, which is especially beneficial to those with asthma.
-
Keep away from excessive use of air fresheners, deodorants, perfumes etc.
-
If you have photocopiers and printers in your home or office, a
separate room should be dedicated to their use. Further, don't use more
of these machines than is necessary.
While indoor air pollution poses a threat to our health, it's
not far from our reach to protect ourselves by following some very
basic advice to ensure clean air inside our homes. |
