Did do you know that we still have a very large, unsolved air pollution problem in this country? And this air pollution has nothing to do with factories, smoke stacks, or bellows of black smoke. This kind of air pollution is found inside your home, not outside.

According to the federal government, indoor air pollution is a large problem, and many Americans do not seem to take it seriously. Indoor air pollution can trigger allergic reactions and asthma. Children are particularly at risk, especially when you consider that some five million children in the U.S. suffer from asthma.

There are several causes of indoor air pollution. Many of them sound disgusting, but we need to discuss them anyway. Frequent air pollution sources include: mold, dander, dust mites, bacteria and cockroaches.

Animal dander and hair are a big pollution source. Many people have allergic reactions to dander and hair. Cats are a particular problem because they lick themselves. So, the hair also contains saliva, and both can trigger reactions.

If this poses a problem, it might be best to keep your pets outdoors, if possible. At a minimum, keep them out of your bedroom and carpeted indoor areas.

Feathers are also problem. They can trigger allergic reactions even if they are contained within pillows or mattresses. The "fix" is obvious, don't purchase feather containing mattresses, pillows or clothing if they represent a problem for you or your family.

Mold flourishes in many dark, humid household places. It is often found in showers and basements. Mold is also found in other places such in plants, kitchens and other wet spots.

Mold should be removed to the extent possible. Ventilation and light should be increased and humidity decreased, whenever possible.

The unconquerable dust mite also poses a problem in many U.S. homes. Mites love mattresses, curtains, and carpets, but can call many other spots "home" as well.

Mites are really disgusting in that it is not just the mite itself which causes allergic reactions It is also the tiny mite waste which makes allergies act up.

And indoor air pollution gives us even another reason to hate cockroaches. Did we need another reason? Cockroaches, and roach waste, can trigger allergic reactions. In fact, allergists frequently test patients for possible cockroach triggered allergies.

There are tools available to reduce indoor air pollution. But, in truth, the fight requires constant vigilance. One good way to start is to make sure that your vacuum cleaner contains a HEPA filter. Whole house air filtration systems are also available and may help.

If your home has forced hot air or air conditioning ducts, you may consider cleaning the ducts. According to trade officials, many indoor air pollutants accumulate in the duct work systems. Frequency of required cleaning may depend on whether there is a smoker in your house, whether you have pets, and whether you have a lot of indoor mold accumulation.

Experts urge that wall to wall carpeting can be a big problem if household members are prone to indoor pollutant reactions. Wood or vinyl flooring, or washable carpets, are preferred by some experts.

In addition, mattress and pillow covers may help because they create a barrier between the sleeper and the dust mite containing mattresses and pillows. In general, measures should be taken to eliminate all toxins from the bedroom. You are in there for many hours at a time, and thus it is important to minimize exposure.

Sprays are also available for carpeting and drapes. The sprays, which can be costly, are intended to kill dust mites and other indoor pollutants.

While we all know that soot producing smoke stacks are unhealthy, many Americans have tended to overlook health threats that are "closer to home." In fact, they are in your home. If you or your family members are bothered by this exposure, an ongoing, vigilant approach may provide needed relief. The problem will not go away by itself; you need to take corrective actions.

The information provided in this column is written by Stuart Lieberman,a practicing environmental attorney, and is for general information purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be used in place of legal advice.

Stuart Lieberman, Esq., and IRED.Com, Inc., will not accept any responsibilty for any reliance on the information in this column or any damages whatsoever resulting from reading this column.