The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to help protect you and your family from the effects of air pollution:

• When air pollution is high, stay inside for as much of the day as possible.
• Plan outdoor activities for first thing in the morning or after sunset.
• Avoid exercising or exerting yourself too much. The more rapidly you breathe, the more pollution you inhale.

If you have chronic lung or heart problems, speak to your doctor about other steps you can take to protect yourself.

-- Diana Kohnle