Waverley Borough Council is encouraging residents to sign up for free air quality alerts through a new partnership with airTEXT.
The free service provides advance warnings when poor air quality or higher levels of pollution are forecast. Additional health guidance helps people to make informed decisions about limiting their exposure to poor quality air.
How airTEXT works
airTEXT sends alerts when air pollution levels are expected to reach moderate or high in your area. It also provides local three-day forecasts covering air quality forecasts, pollen counts, UV levels and air temperature information.
Cllr Adam Duce, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, explained:
"This is a simple but effective way to support those who may be more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, including people with respiratory or heart conditions, older residents and young children.
“By signing up to airTEXT alerts, people can receive timely advice to help reduce their exposure to poor air quality, pollen and other environmental factors. I would encourage anyone who may benefit to sign up and take advantage of this free service."
Why sign up?
Air pollution levels can increase during hot, sunny weather in summer and during cold, still conditions in winter. These periods, known as pollution episodes, can last for two or three days.
Receiving alerts can help residents plan ahead, including adjusting outdoor activities, choosing different travel routes, managing medication and dressing appropriately for weather and environmental conditions.
Where to sign up
Residents can sign up to receive alerts by text message, email, or voicemail. Users can also choose alerts for different areas depending on where they live, work or regularly visit.
Sign up for free airTEXT alerts and find out more about the service by visiting the airTEXT website: https://airtext.info/forecast .
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