High levels of road dust affecting air quality in Greater Helsinki
fine weather The streets are dusty these days from the melting snow that graced Finland’s capital region. According to air quality measurements conducted by the Helsinki Regional Environmental Service (HSY), the amount of road dust in the air is currently affecting air quality, with areas with heavy traffic being most affected. Street dust poses health problems, especially for asthmatics and heart patients, but the amount of dust in the air can be controlled.
Breathing street dust is harmful to everyone and affects people’s general comfort. . Studded tires are a big source of dust particles as they grind the asphalt. Traffic and wind stir up dust, causing harmful health hazards.
The health effects of street dust are most sensitive to asthma sufferers, young children, the elderly, and people with respiratory or heart disease. It can cause discomfort and symptoms in anyone, including itching. It often aggravates symptoms in people with heart or respiratory problems.
When weather conditions permit, cities do their best to clean roads efficiently. Individuals can also reduce street dust levels and the associated health risks by following these 10 street dust season tips provided by HSY.
First of all, stop unnecessary and non-urgent driving. Then choose walking, biking, or public transportation. If you must drive, use studded tires, which generate less dust than studded winter tires. Try to avoid crowded places on days when street dust levels are high. Clear the air by moving even one block away from busy streets. Keep windows closed and seal tightly around doors and windows. Dry laundry indoors. Install efficient air filters in your home and maintain them. The filter is replaced twice a year, in spring and autumn. Wet the ground first to keep dust out before sweeping. Finally, visit to check the air quality status. HSY website.
In conclusion, street dust poses a health risk to everyone and its effects can be felt on a massive scale. By taking simple measures like monitoring the quality of air, we can all contribute to cleaner air and better health.
HT