In all states and large cities, concerned authorities are required to provide the Air Quality Index. Today, this report is so important that even small towns are working on it. According to the EPA, there are four main types of pollutants: sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and ground-level ozone. Let’s take a deeper look at each type. Keep reading to know more.
Ground level ozone
Ozone is a type of natural gas found in the stratosphere. This gas helps prevent harmful ultraviolet lights from the Sun from hitting the surface of our planet Earth. This light is quite dangerous for us humans and animals. Long-term exposure to ultraviolet light can even cause cancer.
Also, ground-level ozone, as the name suggests, is found in the ground and can cause asthma, coughs, and lung problems. This gas can increase due to industry, vehicles, and the burning of fossil fuels.
If you live in a city where there is a lot of traffic, make sure you are aware of this pollutant.
Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide is another type of dangerous gas that kills many people each year. The source of this hiding place is vehicles and fossil fuels. Apart from this, wildfires can also increase the level of carbon monoxide in the winter.
Since this gas is colorless and odorless, we cannot tell if there is too much carbon monoxide. Therefore, we suggest that you check the air quality index in real time and make sure that the air you breathe does not contain too much carbon monoxide.
Particular matter
Another type of pollution source is particles. This is quite dangerous as it can get into your lungs and create many health problems. The size of these particles is between 10 mm and 2.5 mm. Often abbreviated as PM10.
If you live near a sawmill, you may be more prone to particulate matter. If this matter gets into your bloodstream, you may suffer from many health problems.
Sulfur dioxide
Normally, burning coal or oil can generate sulfur dioxide. This gas can raise air pollution levels. Apart from this, sulfur dioxide can also generate another of the most dangerous types of particles called PM2.5.
Here’s what you can do when air quality is poor
If you have a poor air quality index in your area, we suggest that you prepare for the worst. You don’t need to move if you have the purple, red, or orange index level in your area. However, you should make the necessary preparations and leave your home only when you really need to.
An easy way to stay safe is to install a good air purifier. It is best to stick with a unit that comes with a HEPA air filter.
In short, this was a description of some of the most common air pollutants. If you want to improve your indoor air quality, we suggest you invest in a good HEPA-based air purifier.