Beijing and other large urban centers in China suffer from regular problems with high pollution levels.
In Beijing, high pollution levels have been recorded on several occasions in recent months without an alert being issued. The high levels of air pollution in major urban and industrialized areas in China may aggravate bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions.
Travelers should adhere to advice from local authorities on health-related matters. Be aware that pollution levels may be considerable, even though there is no alert in place. If travelers are concerned, and want to receive alerts for air pollution level, SAFEY sends users notifications in-app.
SAFEY began sending out pollution level alerts after authorities issued a yellow alert between February 20th-23rd, in 2014. SAFEY sends regular alerts for changes to air quality in China.
Advice given to travelers:
- Restrict outdoor activities, if you must go out, try to limit the amount of time you are out to strictly essential activities.
- People with respiratory or cardiac disorders should take their medication, and minimize strenuous outdoor activity on smog alert days.
- Minimize your use of items that increase pollution, such as cars, gas powered lawn mowers and other vehicles.
- Avoid driving due to low visibility.
- Do not burn debris or other items during an air quality alert
- If an alternative source of heating is available, don’t use solid fuel heaters.
It is also important to make sure that:
- Vehicles are well maintained.
- Wood heaters are used correctly.