The EPA estimates that we spend 90% of our time indoors, in homes, schools, workplaces, places of worship, or gyms. Research indicates that indoor air pollution is on the rise. Our air quality is affected by chemicals, gases, and particles from products used or naturally occurring inside buildings, inadequate ventilation, and issues with moisture and humidity. The home is the most likely place where people are exposed to indoor air pollution.

To encourage participants to learn about and improve the indoor air quality of their homes, the County Extension agent for Family and Consumer Sciences in Boyd County taught 19 Participants about Indoor Air Quality: Sources and Effects on Our Health. 

Evaluations collected after the lesson indicate that 100% of respondents understand the components of air quality. While 100% of respondents can identify indoor air quality pollutants and how they affect air quality, and 100 % of respondents can identify how they can affect one’s health. All 19 report that they can identify one action to improve the indoor air quality of their home. As a result, 14 respondents plan to make their home a smoke-free zone, and 19 respondents report they plan to change their HVAC filter every 3 months. Also, 19 respondents report they plan to test for radon every 2 years.     

Participants specifically shared the most significant things they learned from the lesson were "How much that goes on outside my home affects the inside of my home". "I plan on being more conscious of changing my HVAC filter", and another participant stated that they plan on "getting an air purifier for their basement" to help the air quality in that location of their home.