Windy and Dusty – Wear a Mask
It is still the month of April and that means more winds and that all too nasty blowing dust and sand in the forecast. Even the month of May can be windy and dusty, so hang in there.
Dr. Ron Wagler, Associate Professor of Science Education at UTEP, says that “extremely high levels of particulate matter are damaging to folks lungs and heart if they breath the air for extended periods of time.”
So those of you who spend any time outdoors when we have dust storms should wear a mask to protect yourself. Dr. Wagler recommends (e.g., NIOSH Approved 3M N95, N99 or N100 Particulate Respirator Mask) purchasing a decent mask available at various Home Health or Medical Supply stores. If you don’t need to be outdoors for any reason, stay indoors on dusty days.
