WALKING SAFELY - IV

(Awareness to pollution)

We all are not that fortunate to walk in pollution free environment of countyside. Most of us now a day are living in cities and towns where pollution in various form are a feature of everyday. The pollutant which concerns walking is the air pollution. The vehicular pollution level in most cities is alarmingly high.

The main airborne pollutants are particulate matters, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxides from diesel engines, motor engines and factories burning fuel. Lead pollution was a major concern a few years back, but now the level is significantly less.

Sound pollution is another concern for people in cities and towns. The honking horns, sounds of running engines and the blaring music can be really tiresome for some people. It is said that if a person is exposed to high decibel sound for a long time it can leave some effect on him. It is advisable to stay away from high decibel sound.

Though sun is beneficial for us in some ways but exposure for longer duration is not recommended. It is wise to carry sun screen lotion, sun hat and sunglasses if you want to take a walk in sunny weather.

People who suffer from asthma or lung condition are at greater risk if exposed to pollution. In certain season the pollen of flowers also give still higher risk. They can use the inhaler before going out for walking.

Though from above it seem to be a pretty bad picture if you consider pollution alone. But actually it is not so. As human, we are designed to adapt to every environment, we have already adjusted to pollution of today. Only awareness of the same will help you to stay out of pollution prone zones. The effect of pollution does not take away the benefits of walking. Only thing is avoiding the busy roads and the rush hours. Walk in parks and residential areas of town where pollution level is much below which may concern you.

Wishes for a happy walking!!