Reduce your exposure to contaminants

Help control heart disease and stroke.

There are many simple but effective steps you can take to reduce your exposure to contaminants and related environmental problems. This page describes environmental hazards that could affect heart disease. For more detailed information, please see our series of easy-to-follow facts sheets and brochures.

Help control heart disease and stroke

Reduce exposure to traffic and outdoor air pollution: Pay attention to Air Quality Index forecasts to know when the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Lower your activity level when the AQI is high.
Keep smoke out of indoor spaces: Avoid smoke from tobacco. Encourage smokers to smoke outdoors. Do not use or limit use of wood-burning stoves and fireplaces.

Use caution when working around the house: Improve ventilation when painting by scheduling indoor painting for times when windows can be left open and by using fans. Take frequent fresh air breaks when painting.
Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning: Never leave a car running in a garage, even with the garage door open. Keep gas appliances properly adjusted. Install and use exhaust fans. Have a trained professional inspect, clean, and tune-up your central heating system.
Prevent heat stress: Use your air-conditioner or go to air-conditioned building. Drink plenty of water. Take a cool shower or bath. Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing. Ask your health care provider if your medications increase your susceptibility to heat-related illness.
Drink clean water: To limit your exposure to lead through your drinking water, run cold water for at least 30 seconds, preferably 2 to 3 minutes before drinking. Testing for lead also may be advisable for people who get their water from municipal sources and live in older homes with lead service lines.