Protect yourself from air pollution while enjoying outdoor activities

(NC) As the summer turns into fall, you might still want to enjoy all your favourite outdoor activities and sports. Whether you are playing in a friendly team game, going for a walk in the woods to enjoy the fall colours or shovelling the first snowfall of the season, the colder weather still holds a risk of exposure to outdoor air pollution. In fact, in cold weather, air pollution stays closer to the ground where you can inhale it.

People with existing heart and lung conditions (including asthma), young children and older adults tend to be at greater risk of outdoor air pollution.

Outdoor air pollution comes from a variety of sources, such as traffic, industrial activities and residential wood-burning from fireplaces. Even low levels of air pollution can impact your health. It can lead to disease, increased hospitalizations and premature death.

So, before you head outdoors, keep in mind the following tips to avoid or minimize the health risks related to outdoor air pollution:

• Check your local air quality conditions using the Air Quality Health Index (also commonly known as the AQHI), InfoSmog (in Quebec), special air quality statements or air quality advisories to determine if it is safe to participate in outdoor activities.
• Know the best times to be active outdoors and choose low-traffic routes for walking, running or cycling, especially during rush hour.
• When air pollution levels are high, avoid or reduce strenuous outdoor activities and limit time spent outdoors, especially if you are at greater risk.
• Avoid or reduce exercising near areas of heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. When possible, exercise in parks and green spaces away from major roads.

Find more information on your health and outdoor air pollution at canada.ca/airhealth.