Help reduce particle pollution and your exposure to it

Help reduce particle pollution in your area by following these tips.
If you use a wood heater, maximise its efficiency and reduce smoke emissions or consider heating alternatives such as insulation, or replacing it with an appropriate flued gas heater or reverse cycle air conditioner.
Avoid using leaf blowers and other types of equipment that raise a lot of dust - use a rake or broom instead. If you use a leaf blower, use it at half the power which reduces the amount of dust generated, reduces noise pollution and saves energy.
Drive slowly on unpaved roads to reduce dust.
Ensure your vehicle is serviced regularly. Worn engines, faulty carburettors, build-up of dirt in the fuel filter and other engine and fuel system problems can cause your vehicle to emit excessive smoke, a major contributor to particle pollution.
When it’s time to trade in your car for another model, investigate cars fuelled by LPG, hybrid vehicles or electric vehicles. Some of these are easier and cheaper to run than petrol vehicles with lower emissions to the environment. For further information see Reducing motor vehicle emissions and the Roads and Maritime Authority website information on buying a green vehicle.
Follow agricultural best practice measures to minimise dust from crop preparation and harvesting, and avoid burning agricultural stubble when weather conditions mean smoke will impact on neighbours and your local community.
If you light campfires or cook food over fires when permitted by the legislation, remember to thoroughly put out the fire once you are finished with it. Do not leave embers smouldering as the fire could spread to neighbouring land.
Avoid soil erosion on your land. Windblown soil can add to dust in the air, increasing particle pollution.
Consult the Air Quality Index to reduce your risk of exposure to particle pollution. The AQI uses a colour-coded system to show when air quality is dangerous or safe.
Take precautions during dust storms, bushfires and hazard reduction burns to minimise any adverse health effects as outlined in NSW Health’s fact sheets
The Roads and Maritime Authority’s online information on TunnelAir Quality recommends keeping car windows closed and switching car air-conditioning to recirculate when driving through road tunnels.