7 winter-ready tips to protect your health indoors

(NC) As the days get colder, most of us will spend more time indoors. When gathering with your friends and family, you might be wondering about the quality of your indoor air, and how to protect your and your loved ones’ health at home.

While it is important to be aware that poor indoor air quality can affect your health, there are some easy ways you can improve your home’s air quality right now.

Here are seven tips to remove or reduce the sources of air pollutants in your indoor air and prevent health issues related to your home’s air quality.

1. Install certified carbon monoxide alarms (also known as carbon monoxide detectors) beside each sleeping area and on each floor. Carbon monoxide is a gas that can’t be seen, tasted or smelled. It can only be detected with a certified alarm. At low levels, exposure can cause flu-like symptoms and impaired motor functions. As levels increase, health effects include dizziness, chest pain, poor vision, difficulty thinking and eventually loss of consciousness and death.

2. Consider using a certified portable air cleaner. Also referred to as air purifiers, they can help improve indoor air quality by removing small particles that can put your health at risk. Air contaminants, including dust and pollen and other airborne particles, can enter your home through windows, doors, vents, air intakes and other openings. Air contaminants can also be produced by indoor sources, such as cooking or using candles and wood stoves. Look for an air purifier that does not produce ozone, which can be harmful to your health.

3. If you use a wood stove or fireplace, take steps to reduce the impacts of wood smoke, such as choosing a low-emission stove, burning only dry, seasoned wood and maintaining a hot, stable fire. You should also make sure to clean and inspect your wood-burning appliances before using them this winter.

4. Address sources of indoor moisture to prevent mould growth. Maintain humidity levels between 30 and 50 per cent, using a dehumidifier as necessary.

5. Consider selecting low-emission cleaning products. Some products may emit high levels of volatile organic compounds. Follow the directions for use and precautions listed on the label.

6. Store cleaning products, paints and solvents in areas away from living spaces.

7. Use a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air filter. You can remove settled dust by wiping and wet mopping.

Learn more about how to prepare your home for the winter at canada.ca/airhealth.