York launches new air alert service

City of York Council has launched a new service designed to send free air pollution alerts and health advice to residents and visitors most likely to be affected by air pollution.

The York Air Alert service is funded by DEFRA and aims to give advanced warning of when air pollution is expected to be higher than usual, up to three days ahead.

The service will provide clear and easy-to-read information about day-to-day pollution across the city. Anyone can sign up to these alerts by text, email or voicemail and users can select alerts for different areas of the city, depending on where they live or work.

Air pollution levels often rise on hot, sunny days in summer and cold, still days in winter. Once these levels increase, they often remain high for two or three days; this a called a pollution episode. Pollution episodes in York are uncommon; but when they do occur, they can have a serious impact on people who suffer from respiratory and/or cardiovascular conditions like asthma, emphysema, bronchitis or heart disease.

Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency at City of York Council, said:

“This is a really simple and easy to use tool to help residents with health conditions affected by air pollution plan ahead and reduce exposure.

“We hope these forecasts will also raise awareness of air pollution across the city and encourage people to consider their air quality impact in helping to protect everyone’s health. Poor air quality is a contributory factor in 1 in 22 deaths in York. We can all improve this stat; share a lift to work, work from home or walk, catch the bus or cycle, if possible, especially on days with high pollution. Solid fuel fires should also be avoided wherever possible.

“The new website will display maps outlining day-to-day air pollution levels. The alerts sent out will offer guidance on whether people are at risk from air pollution on a particular day and provide advice on how to stay healthy and aware.”

Cllr Lucy Steels-Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care at City of York Council, said:

“Air pollution affects our lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, and makes asthma, heart conditions and other illnesses worse. If you have any heart or lung condition or have a concern about air pollution, you can sign up for this new service, which can help you to reduce the pollution that you breathe. Alerts can be set for yourself or for another person, such as an elderly relative or child.”

The new service is being introduced as part of York’s updated Air Quality Action Plan. The plan outlines actions that the council will take to raise awareness of air pollution and improve air quality in the city over the next five years. It aims to go beyond the current National Air Quality Objectives and work towards meeting the World Health Organisation Air Quality Guidelines.

Register for the York Air Alert at: https://airqualityalerts.york.gov.uk/

For further information about the service, or if you require assistance to register, please contact CYC’s Environmental Protection team at public.protection@york.gov.uk or (01904) 551525