Source Vol 4

Did you know that most Americans
spend 90% of their time indoors and that the pollution inside is
often greater than outdoors?

Health effects from indoor
air pollutants may be experienced soon after exposure, or possibly
years later. Immediate effects may show up after a single exposure
or repeated exposures. These include irritation of the eyes, nose
and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

But indoor air pollution
is a risk that you can do something about. Take a moment to familiarize
yourself with some common indoor air quality (IAQ) problems and
with some simple steps you can take to protect your family.

Check these items and make
changes, if necessary, to reduce your health risks:

Bedroom
Humidifier: Clean according to manufacturer’s directions.
Refill with clean water daily to prevent growth of biological contaminants.

Bathroom
Moisture, mold and mildew: Install and use exhaust fan. Fix
plumbing leaks promptly. When using personal care products (hair
spray, nail polish, etc.), open a window or use an exhaust fan.
Follow directions for product use.

All Rooms
Animals (dander, hair, feathers, or skin): Clean house regularly.
House dust mites: Clean house and vacuum regularly. Wash
bedding in hot water. Keep humidity and moisture to a minimum.
Tobacco smoke (cigarette, pipe, and cigar): Do not smoke
in your home or permit others to do so (especially near children).
If smoking cannot be avoided, open windows or use exhaust fans.

Kitchen
Household cleansers: Open windows when using household cleaners.
Use according to manufacturer’s directions.
Cooking and dishwasher use: To reduce moisture, install and
use a fan that vents to the outside.

Basement or Ground
Floor
Radon: Test your home for radon. Do-it-yourself kits are
easy and inexpensive. Fix your home if your radon level is 4 picocuries
per liter (4 pCi/L) or higher. For more information, contact your
state radon office or call 800/SOS-RADON.
Stored hobby products (paint, glue, epoxy,etc.): Follow the
manufacturerãs directions. Use outdoors if possible. Indoors, open
a window or use exhaust fan. Reseal containers well. Clean brushes
and other materials outside.

Cooling System
Air conditioners: Follow all service and maintenance procedures,
including changing the filters. Make sure unit drains properly and
that there is no standing water.

For a free brochure, “How
Healthy Is The Air In Your Home?”, send a stamped, self-addressed
envelope to CFA, P.O. Box 12099, Washington, DC 20005-0999.

For information on reducing
indoor environmental problems in the home, contact the IAQ Information
Clearinghouse at 800/438-4318 or visit the EPA Indoor Environments
website at http://www.epa.gov/iaq.