The Connection Between Disasters and Indoor Air Pollution

When it comes to air pollution, most people think of smoggy cities or factories pumping out harmful chemicals. But what many don’t realize is that the air inside our homes and buildings can be just as polluted, and sometimes even more so. Indoor air pollution is a growing problem in the United States, and it’s been linked to a number of health problems, including respiratory illnesses, headaches, and fatigue.

There are a number of sources of indoor air pollution, from chemicals used in cleaning products to off-gassing from carpets and furniture. But one of the most surprising sources of indoor air pollution is disasters. That’s right, disasters like floods, fires, and hurricanes can release a host of pollutants into the air, including mold, smoke, and chemicals from building materials.

These pollutants can linger long after the disaster is over, and they can have serious health effects. For example, exposure to mold can cause respiratory problems, and exposure to smoke can irritate the lungs and cause headaches. In some cases, exposure to disaster-related pollutants has even been linked to cancer.

So what can you do to protect yourself from indoor air pollution? The best thing you can do is to be aware of the potential sources of pollution in your home and take steps to reduce or eliminate them. For example, you can use natural cleaning products, ventilate your home regularly, and choose furniture and flooring made from low-emitting materials. You can also install an air purifier to help remove pollutants from the air.

By taking these simple steps, you can help protect yourself and your family from the dangers of indoor air pollution.

https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/introduction-indoor-air-quality
https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/cleanup/air.html
https://www.lung.org/clean-air/home/resources/indoor-air-pollution.html