(NC) — As we prepare to spend more time in the great indoors, it's a good time to take some proactive steps to improve the environment (i.e. quality of air) inside our homes, especially if someone in the family suffers from asthma or allergies.

Be sure to open up your blinds and check to see if there are any cracks framing the windows. Use weather-stripping and caulking to seal gaps and cracks in and outside the house to prevent outdoor pollutants from coming in. and check to see if there are any cracks framing the windows. Use weather-stripping and caulking to seal gaps and cracks in and outside the house to prevent outdoor pollutants from coming in.

Sources of indoor air quality problems can come from inside or outside your home. Here are some steps to help address both areas:

From inside your home

• Limit sources of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are found in common household products such as paints. When painting inside, open windows, turn on fans and make sure there is continuous airflow to the outside.

• Control indoor moisture, which can lead to mold problems. Limit the use of humidifiers and set up a dehumidifier in damp areas inside the home.

• Look out for signs of moisture problems, such as a musty smell, condensation on windows, white powdery stains on concrete floors and discolouration on walls, ceilings or floors.

• Use proper ventilation, such as a fan hood vented to the outdoors, when cooking with a gas range or oven.

• Keep vents and registers clear of dust and debris.

From outside your home

• Use weather-stripping and caulking to seal gaps and cracks in and outside the house to prevent outdoor pollutants from coming in.

• Consider investing in an insulation/air barrier system like Icynene, which can minimize the flow of outdoor pollutants and allergens into the home. The moisture management provided by this type of insulation can also help provide your house with protection against moisture that can lead to other indoor air quality issues.

You can find other ways to make your home healthier at www.insulationsmart.com.