Just think about these facts:
You can survive three weeks without food, three days without water but a few minutes without water.
Air is without any doubt one of the most vital resources that we need to survive. The concern or impact of polluted or bad air or even terrible smog is often underestimated.
Do pollution masks help the wearer? This winter has already seen harsh pollution and smoke in many parts of Pakistan specially in Lahore and many other cities of Upper Punjab. With Provincial and local governments abdicating responsibility, citizens are being forced to find ways to breathe in this harsh environment.
Such events have dramatically increased public awareness and discussion about air pollution in multiple parts of the country. People are queuing up outside stores to buy air purifiers and air masks to safeguard themselves from the ill-effects of dangerous levels of air pollution.
Here are the important things that you must consider while purchasing a purifier
| HEPA Filter | To clear out small particulate matter (PM2.5 and less) |
| Heavy-Activated Charcoal | To remove harmful gasses and odors |
| Pre-Filter | To remove the larger particulate matter to prolong the life of the purifier |
| High CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) | To remove more pollutants from specific amounts of air |
| Area to be Purified | Purifiers function efficiently only at half the listed space because they are tested in a sealed environment |
| Avoid Machines With Negative Ions, Photocatalytic Oxidation, UV Lights | These potentially release zone as a byproduct |
A Guide to Surgical Mask
Surgical Mask:
Offers no protection against air pollutants and microbes
Reusability: Disposable, one time use
Price: Rs. 10-20
Verdict: No protection against air pollution
N95 Particulate Respirator
Filters dust particles and certain air-bone biological particles
Reusability: Disposable, should be discarded after two to three days of use
Price: Rs. 100 to 120
Verdict: Not for people who have difficulty breathing, not worth the price
N95 Aura Particulate Respirator
A 3-panel disposable flat-fold respirator with a cool flow valve
Reusability: Disposable, change after a couple of days of use
Price: Rs. 250 to 300
Verdict: Wirth the money regarding comfort and effectiveness
Totobobo Mask
A compact, lightweight mask with a pair of disposable filters
Reusability: Reusable pair of filters
Price: Rs. 2,500 to 3,000
Verdict: Fit can be a problem, price is a bit steep
