Is fine storm grit harmful to kids' lungs?« Back to Previous Page
|
After the heavy dust storm we had last month, I’ve noticed a persistent fine layer of grit on all the blinds in my living room. My wife and I are really concerned about this getting into our children’s lungs, especially since their allergies have been acting up lately. Have you guys experienced anything similar after storms? How do you clean without making it worse for everyone’s health?
|
| ▲ ▼ |
Is fine storm grit harmful to kids' lungs?
Yes, it can be. The fine particles that come from storms like the recent one we experienced here in Dubai can contain dust, pollen, and even small amounts of pollutants. For children, especially those prone to allergies or asthma, these particulates can irritate their airways leading to coughing, wheezing, or an exacerbation of their respiratory issues. In the UAE, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) does recommend regular monitoring of indoor air quality, particularly during times when there's an increase in environmental dust. The fine grit you've noticed on your blinds could be a mix of natural dust and other particulates that might have been kicked up by the storm. To address this issue without worsening the situation for everyone’s health, here are some practical steps: 1. Vacuuming with HEPA Filters: Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters to clean your blinds and other surfaces. HEPA filters can capture up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, which is great for reducing indoor dust. 2. Regular Cleaning: Dust the blinds gently using a damp cloth or microfiber dusters instead of sweeping or vacuuming them, as this can stir up more dust into the air. 3. Humidity Control: Keep your home’s humidity levels low to prevent dust mites and mold growth. Consider using dehumidifiers in areas where moisture is an issue. 4. Air Purification Systems: Invest in a good quality air purifier with a HEPA filter. This can help remove airborne particles from the indoor environment, providing cleaner air for your family. 5. Professional Inspection: If you're concerned or if your children's allergies persist despite these measures, consider getting a professional inspection by calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com. They can provide detailed assessments and recommendations tailored to your home. Remember, the goal is to maintain a clean environment while ensuring that any cleaning activities don't create a dust storm of their own. With careful attention to these steps, you can help reduce the risk of respiratory issues for your children during such storms. |
Please log in to post questions/answers:


