Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition
Working to improve the quality of life for individuals, families and communities affected by asthma.
PVAC is a coalition of health professionals and institutions, community groups and residents, public health organizations, municipal and state agencies, academic institutions, schools, day care, housing and environmental groups committed to improving asthma and environmental conditions that affect health in Western Mass.
Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition
127 State St., PO Box 4895
Springfield, MA 01101-4895
United States
ph: 413.794.7600
pioneerv
What You Can DO to Avoid Asthma Triggers!
This year we have begun a campaign to remove two asthma triggers that are very common and can make life difficult for children and families with asthma:
1) Avoid bleach!!
Did you know that Bleach is hazardous and can trigger asthma attacks? For many things, soap and water cleans just fine.
- Try out our recipes for safe green cleaning that uses everyday household items--white vinegar and baking soda!!
- Share our No Bleach flyer with your family and friends.
- For schools and businesses, check out these resources for Green Cleaning.
2)Avoid Idling! Turn your Car off if you're waiting!
Save gas and the environment--turn off your car if you are waiting at school, at a Massachusetts law restricts idling at schools since the pollutants from vehicle exhaust can enter the school building and pollute the air for everyone. This makes life especially difficult for children and adults with asthma. store or in a drive thru lane.
Last year PVAC led an effort to get No Idling signs at Springfield Schools. This year we want to encourage parents and staff to follow this law--for the sake of our children's health. Print this "No Idling" postcard and share with your family, friends and colleagues.
Impact of Idling
PVAC is working with UMass Amherst resource economist Sylvia Brandt to look at the impact of traffic based pollution in Springfield. Her research shows that:
Traffic based air pollution can cause asthma in some children.
Exposure can trigger an asthma attack in those who already have asthma.
Future generations are affected as well. Exposure in utero can lead to low birth weight.
The health of adults caring for our children is threatened. Traffic-related pollution can lead to death from cardiovascular disease and may increase the probability of developing Alzheimer’s.
Learn more about the impact of idling. Read Prof. Brandt's presentation to PVAC.
Download and share PVAC's No Idling--Children Breathing Ticket (English/Spanish)
Safe Cleaning for People with Asthma:
Cleaning with non-toxic cleaners is a great way to both clean your home and manage asthma.
- White vinegar, baking soda and castile or Murphy's oil soap are great substitutes.
- Use microfiber cloths for more effective cleaning.
- Clean the house when the person with asthma is NOT home, if possible!
Check out these easy, cheap and non-polluting recipes!
Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition
127 State St., PO Box 4895
Springfield, MA 01101-4895
United States
ph: 413.794.7600
pioneerv