How to Deal with the Smog in Beijing?

Beijing is notorious for smog it is one of the major issues in the city. In winter because of more coal-burning and cold weather condition, the smog becomes thick and frequent. The grey smog is very harmful to humans, animals, as well as for trees. 

Smog contains a contaminant called ozone that can cause many health issues like allergy, breathing problems, lung damage, eye irritation, and skin diseases. If you don’t care about smog, it can lead you to some serious health issues. So it is important to protect yourself.

The safe level for PM 2.5 is 25, but sometimes the levels of harmful PM 2.5 particles exceed 600; it looks like a thick fog and smells like something is burning. It is very dangerous for health. 

So the question is how to deal with smog in Beijing?

Wear a Face Mask outside

To avoid harmful fine particles, you have to wear a face mask outside. A face mask may destroy your nice outfit, but it will protect your lungs from dangerous PM particles. 

Keep in mind that the simple surgical masks don’t work well to avoid superfine PM 2.5 particles. So always buy a mask that fits on your face and cover your nose well. The air should pass through a filter, not through some opening from the mask. Make sure to buy a mask from some reliable source because there are many fake manufacturers. 

I use a cheap simple mask that consists of a washable layer and a filter. The filter is to be replaced after a few hours of use. I figure out that if the mask doesn’t clean out 99% of fine particles, it still makes a major improvement. 

A face mask can be very effective in protecting you from bad air quality. It may look unappealing and uncomfortable, but it really works. It may get a little warm and soggy under the mask that your skin may not like. And wearing sunglasses with the mask can fog up the glasses. But all this is for your better health. After a few use, you will become used to it. 

Use an Air Filter at Home

When there is smog outside I try not to open the window, but the smog still comes inside the home. To avoid harmful fine particles inside your home, you need to get an air filter. 

Air filters are a small device that sucks the air and remove all the pollutants and harmful particles, after purifying the air it pushes back the clean air into space. It works to remove all the impurities like dust, smog, odor, and harmful particles in the air. It can provide you a healthy atmosphere and make your home smog-free. 

Many types of air purifiers available in the markets. You can choose the one which is cheap and effective. You can also buy an air filter online, but do your research before ordering. 

Use Apps to stay informed

Usually, when you look outside, you come to know how good or bad the air quality is. I live on the higher floor, and I judge the air quality by how clearly I can see the building around me. But you can’t rely on it. 

The US embassy evaluates air samples taken in Chaoyang and broadcasts hourly weather updates. You can download the app to track the hourly air condition. When the pollutant levels are higher avoid going outside.

Stay Home

On smoggy days, you should limit your outdoor activities. Try to stay at home, especially in the morning and evening. Exercise at home. Have fun with your family. And if you have to go, must use a face mask.

If you have allergies or asthma, always keep your inhalers and medicine kit in your pocket. 

Stay Hydrated

During smoggy days, drink lots of water and eat fruits and vegetables. It will hydrate your body and remove all harmful chemicals. 

Don’t get used to it

There are many bad impacts of smog on the body. It can affect your eyes, skin, nose, and your mood too. You can avoid it only by protecting yourself. Don’t get used to it; breathing in pollutant air can lead to lung diseases. If you feel any change in your body, consult your doctor as soon as possible.