This is not an April Fool! The DEFRA (Dept for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) forecast for Air Quality for tomorrow (Wednesday 2nd April) shows extremely high levels of air pollution which could prove fatal to some.
Almost all of England and Wales will experience “extraordinarily high levels of pollution” caused by a build-up of pollution in the UK and vast amounts of Saharan dust being blown over.
DEFRA has issued a warning that people with lung or heart problems and older people should “avoid strenuous physical activity tomorrow.”
“People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often.”
It’s been reported in some newspapers that this is the worst air pollution to hit Britain in 60 years!
DEFRA say you should follow the 3 steps below to use the Daily Air Quality Index.
- Determine whether you (or your children) are likely to be at-risk from air pollution.
- If you may be at-risk, and are planning strenuous activity outdoors, check the air pollution forecast.
- Use the health messages below corresponding to the highest forecast level of pollution as a guide.
The colour for the Llanelli area means High and would be either 8 or 9 (depending on the place) on their Air Quality scale.
Accompanying health messages for at-risk individuals*
- Adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, should reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors, and particularly if they experience symptoms. People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often.
Accompanying health messages for the general population
- Older people should also reduce physical exertion. Anyone experiencing discomfort such as sore eyes, cough or sore throat should consider reducing activity, particularly outdoors.
*Adults and children with heart or lung problems are at greater risk of symptoms. Follow your doctor’s usual advice about exercising and managing your condition. It is possible that very sensitive individuals may experience health effects even on Low air pollution days. Anyone experiencing symptoms should follow the guidance provided below.
Anyone concerned about their health or that of a loved one tomorrow should call the Government’s Air Pollution hotline on 0800 55 66 77.
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