Yard

Burn Barrel- Air Pollution & Smoke

Smoke from backyard burn barrels makes air pollution. Burning trash is illegal in Indiana. The smoke, toxins and fine particles that are released from burning trash are harmful and can cause someone with asthma to have an attack. Burning leaves and other yard waste can also be harmful to people with lung diseases.

• Do not burn trash and report illegal trash burning to the local authorities.

• Do not burn yard waste. Try composting yard waste. The compost will make a natural fertilizer for gardening.

• For more information on illegal open burning visit Stop Burning Trash.org

Roof- Mold

Leaky roofs can lead to water damage and mold inside your home.

• Inspect your roof at least once a year for damage. Repair any damage right away.

• Generally, the roof should have no more than 3 layers of shingles.

• Inspect your attic at least once a year for damage and water stains. Find the source and repair right away.

• Entryways should have an overhang to prevent water from entering the home.

Gutters- Mold

Gutters direct rain water away from the house. When clogged, water will run over the side of the gutters and collect at the foundation. This will damage the foundation over time allowing water to seep inside. Standing water and dampness allows mold to grow.

• Clean out and repair gutters regularly. Remove debris and spray out gutters using a garden hose.

• Check that all downspouts are connected. Downspouts should have an elbow at the end directing water away from the house.

• Do not allow water to pond next to the house. The ground next to the house should be sloped away from the foundation for good drainage.

Window Air Conditioner- Mold

Window air conditioners not only cool the air, but also reduce humidity and prevent outdoor air pollution, pollen and mold spores from entering your home. Standing water from the air conditioner allows mold to grow.

• Prevent water from draining inside the house by tilting the back of the air conditioner, outside the window, slightly down.

• Check the drain pan for water and mold. Drain and clean the pan weekly.

• Check the window sill and wall for condensation, standing water, and mold. Wipe away the condensation, standing water, and mold.

Landscaping- Pollen

Pollen counts are higher in the spring thru fall. Tree pollen counts are highest in the early spring, grass pollens in the late spring and summer, and weed pollens in summer and fall.

• Limit outdoor activities, such as gardening, when pollen counts are high. Stay indoors and use air conditioners when possible.

• To find out if pollen counts are high visit the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology website for Daily Pollen Counts.

• Your doctor can do an allergy test to find out what trees, grasses, or weeds may affect your asthma.

Car Exhaust- Air Pollution

Car exhaust releases air pollution, including fine particles, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds.

• If your garage is attached to your home, always close the door between the house and garage and open the car garage door when warming-up the car. This will reduce the build-up of pollutants.

• Do not idle while waiting in the drop-off and pick-up area of your child’s school or early child care. Talk to the school or early child care staff about adopting a no-idling policy for all cars and trucks.

• Car pool, use public transportation, ride a bike or walk to reduce air pollution.

Lawnmower- Air Pollution, Pollen & Mold

Gas-powered lawnmowers help create air pollution. Cutting grass spreads dust, pollen and mold spores into the air.

• Avoid cutting grass if pollen, mold, dust or air pollution triggers your asthma.

• If you must cut grass use a HEPA filter face mask respirator. The mask should filter particles to 0.3 microns and have a valve that releases air for your blow out. These masks can be found at your local hardware store.

• Mow the lawn in the evening after six o'clock. Smog levels are highest during the hot part of the day.

• Do not mow your lawn on Ozone Action Days when air quality is poor.

• Check the Indiana Department of Environment Management’s Smog Watch website for daily ozone levels or call 1-800-631-2871 or 1-317-233-2318.

• Check daily weather reports or the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology website for Daily Pollen & Mold Counts for pollen counts.

Bicycle- Exercise

Exercise is a common asthma trigger. During exercise, cold dry air, pollen, mold and air pollution can make asthma symptoms worse. Though exercise can be an asthma trigger, it is important to stay active.

• Check the Indiana Department of Environment Management’s Smog Watch website for daily ozone levels or call 1-800-631-2871 or 1-317-233-2318.

• Check daily weather reports or the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology website for Daily Pollen & Mold Counts for pollen counts.

• Visit the Indiana Chronic Disease Management Program website for more information on Exercise and Asthma

Trash Can- Pests

Trash cans are a possible food source for pests.

• Trash cans should have lids to prevent standing water and pests.

• Clean up any trash around trash cans.

• Locate trash cans away from child play areas.

• Use good trash bags that resist breakage to avoid leaks and spillage.

Clothesline- Pollen & Mold

Pollen and mold spores will stick to wet clothes dried outside when counts are high.

• If you are allergic to pollen or mold, do not dry clothing outside.

• Check daily weather reports or the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology website for Daily Pollen & Mold Counts for pollen counts.

Sandbox- Pets & Pests

The sandbox can be a source of animal or bird waste.

• Cover sandbox when not in use.

• Remove animal waste and any other hazards from areas where children play.