Idle Free Linn

Asthma & Other Respiratory Problems

Small particles and other air toxics in exhaust fumes can exacerbate asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and bronchitis. 

Vulnerable populations include:  Children, Adults over 65 years of age, and anyone with respiratory problems.  

Heart

Exhaust from idling vehicles may cause atherosclerosis, hardening of the arteries, and eventually heart attack. 

Cancer

Long-term exposure to some chemicals common in vehicle exhaust, such as benzene, have been linked to cancer. 

Other Symptoms

Carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, common pollutants in vehicle exhaust, can cause headache, dizziness, chest pain, confusion, chest paint, hyperventilation, and/or nausea.  

Resources

• Environmental Protection Agency - Ozone and Asthma
• Diesel Exhaust and Cancer, American Cancer Society

Car Care

• Keep vehicles well-maintained.  Properly inflate tires, regular vehicle maintenance, tune-ups, and repairs can improve fuel economy, saving money and protecting the air.  
• Refuel with the air is cool.  Stop refueling when the handle clicks and do not top off the tank.  Tighten the gas cap for a proper seal to prevent fuel fumes from being released into the air. 
• Reduce the amount of time a vehicle operates by combining errands and driving during times that are less congested.  To save even more gas, use alternative means of transportation, such as biking, walking, and/or carpooling. 
• Be Idle Free!  If you are not in traffic and will be stopped for more than 10 seconds, turn off the vehicle engine.  Click here for the myths and facts of idling.

Driving Alternatives

• Share a ride and carpool or ride the bus.  By switching from driving alone to carpooling or riding the bus, the typical worker can save over $1,000 per year!
• Walk or ride a bike on shorter trips and get exercise while saving fuel!
• Bring your lunch or have an office potluck instead of driving to a restaurant. 
• Teleconference instead of driving to a meeting to save time and money. 
• If possible, telecommute.  This reduces the cost of vehicle upkeep, parking, and fuel.  
• Drive an alternative-fuel vehicle.  Hybrid or electric cars are great options, and ethanol burns cleaner than gasoline or diesel. 

Other Options

• Low-Maintenance Landscaping:  Plant native grasses, shrubs, and ground-cover to minimize the use of gas-powered lawn equipment, pesticides, and herbicides.  Not only can this improve air quality and save time and money, it can also improve water quality and help to prevent flooding. 
• Grilling:  Use a gas or electric grill instead of charcoal.  Lighter fluid adds pollutants to the air. 
• Painting:  Use rollers or brushes with water-based paints and solvents.  Sprays create more fumes. 
• Reduce Energy Usage:  Simple steps include turning off lights and appliances when not in use.  Set the thermostat at home to the highest comfortable temperature in the summer and the lowest comfortable temperature in the winter.  Finally, replace old appliances (if possible) with newer, Energy Star certified units and used LED bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs.