Prioritize Clean Air When Going on a Summer Holiday!
One can conveniently assume outdoor air quality to be better than indoors. But taking summer air for granted for cleanliness can be a mistake. During this season, you witness numerous seasonal allergies, poor air, smoke, wildfire smog, and much more. Regarding allergies, late spring and early warmer months lead to grass pollen growth. Pollens ride on wind to travel miles.
Anyone susceptible to grass allergies can see their symptoms worsen with a few specific types of vegetables and fruits because they and pollen possess similar proteins. Once this risk subsides, another starts in the form of fungal spores. These can also cause allergies and are more typical to occur during July. August allergies mainly relate to mold spores.
Not being prone to summer allergies doesn’t mean you are safe. Allergies are not the only factor to affect summer air quality outdoors. Various pollutants attack its clean fiber and your health when ingested through breathing. That’s why the US started air quality evaluation in 1976 after the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency.
Metro cities with over 350k people should monitor everyday air quality and inform the public. The measurement is Air Quality Index or AQI. It is a simple reference to understand the air quality you breathe daily. If you want to go to a popular beach destination like Texas with friends or family, you can check a specific location’s AQI to determine if its air will suit everyone. Here are a few suggestions to make your search easy based on this essential factor.
Surfside Beach (AQI – 19)
This four-mile-long beach with clean waters and air demands attention for its myriad recreational activities, like crabbing, fishing, and surfing. Sometimes, horse riding options are also available. But you can check with the authorities about the timing. If you enjoy crabbing, visit crabbing pier close to Stahlman Park.
Galveston (AQI – 44)
This gulf-fronting sandy beach runs ten miles on Galveston Island. The eponymous beach has earned its name from the seawall extending over the low shoreline. You can easily access resorts, bars, and restaurants in this park. You can carry your pup to this beach, but it should be on a leash. Nevertheless, it should be fun to stroll on this arguably the longest sidewalk.
South Padre Island (AQI – 57)
AQI indicates that air quality levels of 100 and above should be avoidable. Anything below 100 is acceptable. Still, you must be careful if you have sensitive people in the group. Nevertheless, located on the namesake barrier island, the beach boasts 34 miles of sandy stretch that looks pale and soft. Anyone can visit this beach. The strong winds will help you indulge in this experience if you enjoy flying kites. Those who crave more can check Isla Blanca Park for fishing, dolphin watching, and surfing options.
Because pollution levels have increased lately, it doesn’t mean one should stay indoors. Spending time outdoors is equally important. However, you can make your experience safer by visiting a clean-air location when you leave home with family and friends. Protecting your health should be the primary concern, even during vacations.