DHSS Press Release |
Date: May 17, 1999 DHSS-DPH20-1999 |
| Gregg C. Sylvester, M.D., Secretary Ron Gough, Acting Communication Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 |
Contact: Ron Gough Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
OUTDOOR POLLUTANTS AFFECT INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Exhaust fumes, pollen, radon and other pollutants can find their way inside
DOVER - As part of its "Breathe the Difference" campaign to reduce indoor air pollution, Delaware Health and Social Services' Division of Public Health is tackling 12 indoor pollution sources known as the "Dirty Dozen." This month, the campaign focuses on "things from outside" as a source of indoor air pollution.
While the circulation of fresh air can improve your indoor air quality, homeowners should be aware of outdoor pollutants that can enter the home and lead to health problems. Pollen, pesticides, auto exhaust fumes, mold spores and even bird droppings can make their way into your home, causing respiratory irritation, dizziness, headaches, excessive drowsiness and aggravated asthma symptoms.
The following prevention measures are suggested to control the indoor penetration of these outdoor pollutants:
- During allergy season, wash clothes as soon as you get home. Try to avoid wearing fabrics that pollen can cling to, like wool or rayon.
- Thoroughly wipe your shoes before entering the home or remove them to keep from tracking pesticides or other pollutants into the home.
- Never leave automobiles idling in the garage where carbon monoxide from exhaust fumes can enter your home.
- On days when the pollution index or pollen count is especially high, keep windows closed and turn on the air conditioning.
- Use pleated filters in heating and cooling systems and consider an HEPA air cleaner with a carbon pre-filter.
- Discourage birds from nesting or roosting in ductwork and vents.
RADON
The most harmful of the outdoor pollutants that can enter your home is radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., resulting in 14,000 deaths annually.
Produced by the breakdown of uranium in rocks and soil, radon enters the home through cracks in foundations and walls, openings around sump pumps and drains, and construction joints. The highest concentrations of radon gas are found in the lowest levels of the home.
Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that get trapped in your lungs when you breathe. Damage to lung tissue results as the particles break down further and release small bursts of energy. Since the gas is odorless, colorless, and does not cause any short-term health effects such as shortness of breath or headaches, it can easily go undetected.
Testing for radon, however, is easy and inexpensive. Do-it-yourself radon test kits can be ordered by mail or purchased at your local hardware store. Short-term tests remain in your home for two to 90 days, while a long-term test devices require a period of more than 90 days. Both are effective, though the long-term test will give you a more accurate picture of your year-round radon level. Whichever test you choose, make sure it is state-certified or has passed the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) testing program.
In addition to things from outside, including radon, the "Dirty Dozen" of indoor air pollution sources include: carbon monoxide gas; inadequate maintenance of heating and cooling systems; the lack of housekeeping; excess water; chemicals; plants; pests; new materials such as carpet and furniture; tobacco smoke; lead paint dust; and asbestos.
To receive a checklist of simple changes you can make to improve the air quality in your home, call the Delaware Health and Social Services, Division of Public Health at (302) 739-6619 or 1-800-464-4357.
Information on radon is also available by calling 1-800-554-4636.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
