Residents are being given some tips on how to improve air quality around them.

Clean Air Day is taking place across the UK this Thursday to inspire people to take simple steps to protect their health from air pollution.

Air quality in Dorset is monitored by a variety of national and local organisations including Dorset Council with Public Health Dorset and government agencies like Defra. Air pollution is most often associated with traffic related emissions outdoors, but we can also all do things to improve the quality of the air we breathe at home.

Cllr Laura Miller, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health at Dorset Council, said:

“Air pollution is linked to illnesses such as heart and lung diseases and can make existing conditions worse. We know that the main sources of air pollution in Dorset are industrial sources and traffic related. Air quality varies across Dorset, but we can all take steps to improve our air by driving less, insulating our homes to save energy and helping to look after greenspaces that help improve air quality."

Public Health Dorset is encouraging people to take simple steps to cut down on the pollution we emit and improve the quality of the air we breathe for our own health and the health of our local environment.

Top tips for improving air quality and protecting your health in your home and on the go

1 Use your car less and walk, cycle or use public transport

2 Switch your car engine off when stationary

3 Take the side streets when walking or cycling to reduce your exposure to air pollution

4 Regularly service your car and keep your tyres inflated to reduce fuel use

5 Only use your open fire/wood-burning stove when necessary, and burn smokeless fuel or dry, well-seasoned wood

6 Stop smoking or if you do smoke do it outside away from other people such as children.

7 Choose paints and varnishes that are labelled as low volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

8 Regularly service your boiler at home

9 Open your windows when cooking or using cleaning products