Pollution Alert Service for residents with respiratory problems
Free service warning of pollution levels capable of affecting health
While pollution levels within Reigate & Banstead are generally quite low, occasionally (20 to 50 times per year) pollution levels are reached that are capable of causing short term health problems for people with pre existing respiratory problems such as severe asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema or more generally chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
These elevated pollution levels occur borough wide with some of the highest levels in the more rural parts of the borough, especially in the summer months.
The main pollutant of concern during these elevated pollution periods is ground level ozone, and occasionally particulate pollution known as PM10.
In order to alert residents with respiratory problems when these problematic levels of pollution are likely to occur, the council operates a pollution warning service (airTEXT) in conjunction with five other local authorities in Surrey.
The service informs users 24 hours in advance of elevated pollution events, either by a recorded telephone message, text to a mobile phone, or via email, to help users manage their condition more effectively.
How to subscribe
Sign up to the free pollution warning service (airTEXT website)
The service is free and users can subscribe and unsubscribe at anytime.
For further health information see the airTEXT health advice page (airTEXT website).
Outside our borough
If you work outside the borough you may be interested in a similar service offered by Sussex and also the London local authorities:
Contact
If you have any questions on the airAlert service please call on 01737 276 403 or email airalert@reigate-banstead.gov.uk.