Avoiding Dirty Air
If we all do what we can to reduce our pollution, the air where we live will get cleaner. But it’s good to think about ways to protect yourself from dirty air. There are loads – and they’re easy!
Walk on quieter streets
Busy roads and heavy traffic means lots of pollution. But you can often avoid it by walking on a quieter side street nearby. That way, you’ll not be breathing in dirty air as you travel. Nice one!
Taking a side street can cut the amount of air pollution you’re exposed to by 53%. That’s more than half!
Walk away from the road
What side of the pavement do you walk on? The air can be a lot cleaner on the side furthest away from the traffic. Try not to walk directly next to the cars and vans – the closer you are to their exhaust pipes, the dirtier the air will be.
Check the air quality forecast
Just like the weather forecast, there’s an air quality forecast, too. Who knew? It’s worth checking the forecast before you go outside. Exercising is good for you, but it’s better when the air is cleaner. Your back garden or your local playing fields are great places for playing or doing exercise because they’re away from polluting roads.
Use your windows
It’s not just outside where air quality matters – it’s inside, too! It’s important to keep air flowing through your house so that nasty mould doesn’t grow. If you can, try keeping your bedroom window open as much as you can to let some clean air in. But keep it shut if the air quality forecast says the air outside is dirty.
Avoid walking next to busy roads. It’s bad for your lungs. Much better to walk on quieter streets with less traffic. Easy!
If the air’s clean outside, open some windows! You can check the air quality forecast to find out.
