What you can do to reduce air pollution
There are many things that you can do to help reduce pollution levels and improve the quality of life for yourself, your family and others.
Think before you drive
For short trips, why not walk, cycle or use public transport. Cycling or walking is healthier for the environment and you. Did you know you are exposed to much higher levels of air pollution inside a car, than if you walked or cycled.
Try using your car for long trips and not short trips because a cold engine produces much more pollution;
Don't drive your car when there are warnings of high air pollution;
Have your car serviced regularly so that it runs efficiently, saves fuel and does not pollute the air as much;
Regularly check your car’s tuning and tyre pressure to improve fuel consumption;
Don't leave your engine running when you are parked or when the car is stationary, such as outside school gates;
Drive smoothly as racing starts and sudden stops increase fuel consumption;
Steady your speed as emissions rise above 70mph; and
Think about car sharing - go shopping with neighbours or take a colleague to work or find out about joining a Car Club.
Develop a travel plan
Why not ask your employer, school or college about developing a travel plan that could include travelcard loans, cycle facilities or a car pool.
Also we can give you advice on setting up plans. For example, our School Travel Plan website has been set up to help schools design and develop their own travel plan.
Cleaner fuels
Think about switching to cleaner fuels. If you have a diesel car, try to use a cleaner fuel such as 'city diesel' as these produce less smoke than normal diesel fuel.
If you are thinking about buying a new car, why not invest in a smaller car as this will save you money, tax, fuel and reduce pollution.
Also why not convert your existing car to run on greener fuel such as gas. For information about grants to help you do this visit Transport energy website.
Smoking
Giving up smoking will cut down your risk of lung and heart disease and will make you less vulnerable to the short-term effects of air pollution.
Stopping smoking with support is the most effective way. For help please call the Hounslow free phone NHS stop smoking service on 0845 111 0155.
Asthma
If your an Asthma suffer and traffic fumes make it harder for you to breathe, avoid driving ir walking on busy streets. Also avoid energetic outdoor activities, especially in the summer afternoons when pollution is highest.
Children with asthma may need to use their reliever inhaler before they play sport during high poll pollution episodes.