As air pollution levels continue to rise, many people are concerned about the safety of going for a morning walk. While exercising in areas with high pollution can pose health risks, there are steps you can take to protect your respiratory health. Here are some dos and don’ts to follow when going for a morning walk in polluted areas.

Dos:
– Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before heading out and consider postponing your walk if the air quality is poor.
– Time your walk for the morning or evening when pollution levels are typically lower.
– Wear a mask designed to filter out fine particulate matter, such as N95 or N99 masks.
– Choose routes away from heavy traffic and industrial areas, opting for parks and green spaces.
– Stay hydrated by drinking enough water before, during, and after every walk.
– Consider shorter walks to minimize your time exposed to pollutants.
– Pay attention to your body and cut your walk short if you experience unusual symptoms.

Don’ts:
– Avoid routes that take you through congested traffic areas to reduce your exposure to vehicle emissions.
– Avoid strenuous exercise on days with high pollution levels to prevent increased inhalation of pollutants.
– Stay away from construction sites, as they can release dust and pollutants.
– Quit smoking and avoid smoking during your walk, as it compounds the negative effects of air pollution.
– Use proper respirators instead of cloth masks, as they are more effective at filtering out small particulate matter.
– In case of any respiratory symptoms, consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.