Prevention strategies aim to decrease exposure to the allergens triggering asthma attacks.

Prevention Strategies:

1.	Dander (skin flakes), urine, feces, feathers and saliva of animals can all cause allergic reactions. Remove the animal from the home. Remove all products made with feathers. If you cannot remove the animal, keep the animal out of the bedroom and keep the door closed. Remove carpets and upholstered furniture that trap dander particles and keep the pet away from the affected individual as much as possible.
2.	Dust mites are prevalent in areas of high humidity. Mites like to live on pillows, mattresses, bedcovers, pillows, upholstered furniture, carpets, and on stuffed toys. Cover the mattress and pillow in an allergen impermeable cover such as plastic. If unable to cover pillows they should be washed weekly. Wash sheets, blankets, and pillowcase at least once a week in 130 °F or 54.4 °C. If Possible: Reduce humidity indoors to < 50%. Avoid sitting or sleeping on upholstered furniture. Remove carpet from bedroom or carpet laid on concrete. Don't let an asthmatic child sleep with stuffed toys or keep them on the bed. Wash stuffed toys at least once a week in hot water > 130°F or 54.4 °C.
3.	Cockroach allergies are common in inner city areas. Do not leave food and garbage exposed. It is best to use poison traps not chemical sprays because these can be inhaled and trigger an asthma attack. If fumigating, do not let the person with asthma come back into the home until the odor has gone .
4.	Indoor molds (fungi) are present in areas of high humidity and in damp homes. Use measures to control humidity and dampness in the home such as a dehumidifier.
5.	Trees, grass, weed pollen, and mold spores are outdoor allergens. Pollen and mold spores are highest during midday and afternoon hours. Stay indoors with windows shut in an air-conditioned environment during midday and afternoon when pollen and spore counts are the most elevated. When possible, do outdoor activities just after sunrise when pollen counts are lower.
6.	Air pollutants Tobacco smoke: People with asthma should never smoke nor be exposed to tobacco smoke. Exposure to smoke can cause a decrease in lung function. Babies and children exposed to tobacco smoke by parents are more likely to develop asthma. When air pollution levels are high, people with asthma should stay indoors and especially avoid exercise outdoors. Avoid other irritants like strong odors, wood-burning appliances, smoke from fireplaces, or fumes from gas, oil or kerosene stoves, which can trigger asthma attacks.
7.	Occupationally induced asthma is important to recognize early on because symptoms may not be reversible over time and asthma may persist even after exposure to the irritant has subsided. With occupational asthma, symptoms usually improve when away from the work environment. Establishing you have occupational asthma can be difficult especially when symptoms occur several hours after exposure. Prevention consists of eliminating exposure to the offending agent.