As pollution blankets Delhi-NCR once again, threatening lungs, immune systems and comfort, neurologist Dr. Rahul Chawla from AIIMS has issued crisp advice to help residents stay safe amid the “gas-chamber” air. Here are his five key recommendations:

1. Stay indoors as much as possible — Keep windows and doors shut except for a short ventilation window around 1 – 3 PM when outdoor air is less dense.

2. Clean smartly & avoid indoor smoke — Wipe furniture with a damp cloth instead of dusting, and avoid burning incense, camphor or candles indoors which increase indoor particulate load.

3. Use N95 masks outdoors and limit vulnerable exposure — If stepping outside, wear a proper N95 mask. Elderly, children and people with lung issues should skip outdoor walks in peak pollution hours; opt for indoor exercise instead.

4. Invest in indoor air-quality tools — If possible, use an air purifier sized for your room; maintain plants and keep indoor air as sealed from polluted outdoor air as feasible.

5. Avoid commuting or relocate temporarily if possible — For those able, working from home helps avoid inhaling toxic air on the move; even short breaks away from the city may help.

These steps do not eliminate risk entirely — even indoor air in Delhi may contain up to 70 % of outdoor fine particles unless homes are well sealed. The advice is particularly urgent for children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Stay alert to AQI updates, avoid high-traffic zones, and treat this period as more of a public-health phase than a seasonal nuisance.