The capital was today put on ‘red’ toxic air alert with millions urged to spend less time outdoors.
Runners should exercise caution and those with pre-existing lung and heart problems should consider training indoors.
Londoners signed up to the airText messaging system received a message this morning that read;“High air pollution forecast for Thursday. Consider spending less time outdoors, take medication. If unwell contact GP.”
“People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often.”
The alarm was raised by Mayor Sadiq Khan as a cloud of filthy air from Germany’s industrial heartlands was predicted to blow into the capital, smothering a swathe of central and west London.
It was expected to mix with locally-produced nitrogen dioxide fumes, much of which is spewed into the city’s streets by diesel vehicles.
‘Red’ level warning carry official health advice for “Anyone experiencing discomfort such as sore eyes, cough or sore throat should consider reducing activity, particularly outdoors.”
Those with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, should reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors, and particularly if they experience symptoms. People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often.
Runners are urged to exercise caution and stop if symptoms arise.
