Spending Time Indoors

With people spending an estimated 90% of their time indoors, indoor air quality should be an important consideration during the holidays and year round, states Kevin J. Slates, director of the Occupational Health and Safety Laboratory and clinical assistant professor in Indiana University's School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation. He and faculty member Larry Newton say there is more to the aromas of pine trees than memories of Christmas past. Spores in the branches, needles and bark can create bothersome odours for people with sensitive allergies.

Below are some tips for maintaining good air quality that will keep you safe during the Christmas period:

• the use of portable heating devices and poor air ventilation can lead to build-up of carbon monoxide, ‘the silent killer.’ Perform maintenance to your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system to ensure that it is functioning properly, and change filters regularly
• live Christmas trees can be a haven for bugs, allergens and mould. For people with fragrance allergies, set the tree in water in a heated garage or porch for a day or two to acclimatise it to warmer temperatures and let insects leave the branches. This will decrease the likelihood of an allergic reaction or having bugs in your home
• do not let live Christmas trees dry out. Water regularly, but keep in mind that needles on pine trees begin to get brittle after two weeks, making your tree a potential fire hazard
• artificial trees must be kept in a dry and sealed container after the holiday season. Dust from an open box, or mould from inside a wet container, are an invitation for allergens to enter your home when you start setting up decorations. If the tree or the packaging is dusty or smells musty, wipe down the tree in a garage or outdoors, and let it dry before bringing it into your home. Sometimes vacuuming helps, as well.

News Wise
December 2011