Possibility of high air pollution this weekend
Moderate levels of air pollution are being forecast across Northern Ireland this weekend and into Monday, with the possibility of localised high levels on Sunday.
The high levels of ozone and particulate matter expected will be as a result of local pollution, in combination with weather conditions which could see pollution transported from the Continent.
During periods of High Pollution the symptoms of people with lung or heart disease may worsen. Healthy people are unlikely to experience any ill effects.
Hourly updates on levels of particulate matter (PM10), sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone and carbon monoxide are available on the Department’s website: http://www.airqualityni.co.uk and the Department’s freephone helpline (0800 556 677), which also offers health advice to those who may be particularly sensitive to air pollution.
While most people will not be affected by short term peaks in air pollution, some people – particularly vulnerable groups such as those with existing heart or lung conditions – may experience increased symptoms.
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If you think you may be affected by air pollution levels, you should consider modifying your treatment as you usually do when symptoms increase and consult your doctor if this is not effective. You may also wish to reduce the time you spend outdoors or avoid busy, congested streets.
If you have noticed in the past that your breathing is affected during cold, calm conditions or on hot, sunny days, you should avoid strenuous outdoor activity on those days and ensure that you have access to your usual medication, such as asthma inhalers.
Children with asthma should be able to take part in games in the usual way, although they may need to increase their use of reliever medicines before participating. There is no need for them to stay away from school. If you suffer from a heart condition and notice a change in your symptoms, you should seek medical advice as you normally would.
Subscribers to the Air Aware service will also receive notification of this alert, visit nidirect: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/air-pollution-and-health
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