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Because we spend so much time inside, indoor air pollution is a real concern. Many of these pollutants are colorless and odorless and thus go unnoticed. Awareness of the hazards can help us take positive action to improve our environment.

Pesticides sprayed on lawns and food can affect everyone. While all ages are susceptible, the EPA feels that children are more sensitive to pesticides due to their immature immune systems, higher consumption of certain foods such as apple juice and milk, and bodily contact with the floor, animals, and lawns. The first step to reducing pesticide exposure is prevention. In your home, make sure to:

■ Remove your shoes when you come inside. Not only will this help keep your home cleaner, it will reduce possible contamination of your floors and rugs with pesticides and chemicals from outdoors. This is especially important if you have small children who spend time on the floor.

■ Keep food (and trash) in closed containers in your home to prevent attracting insects.

■ Don’t leave pet food out overnight.

■ Make sure any possible site of entry for insects is sealed with screens, caulking, and weather stripping.

■ Wash or vacuum floors on a regular basis.

■ Keep your pets away from areas where pesticides have been applied; they are a vehicle to introduce the pesticides into your home. Before putting chemicals on your lawn, keep in mind that dogs and cats live in direct contact with the grass and lick their paws often. Likewise, avoid pesticide-laden flea collars and treatment products that come into contact with their skin and fur.

■ Wash your (and your children’s) hands frequently.

■ If toys are dropped on the ground, clean them before you give them back to children.

■ Buy clothes made from organic cotton, hemp, or other organic natural fibers.

When purchasing pesticides, the EPA suggests you read the label to find important health information before you buy. If possible, go organic when caring for your lawn and garden, and encourage your neighbors to cut down on their chemical use for the good of everyone.