Blue skies return to Beijing but there are questions to be answered

Air pollution is now the single largest environmental health risk, with an estimated 7 million deaths caused by air pollution globally in 2012, according to a report from the World Health Organization. So how to deal with it if the city you live in is hit by smog?

Tourists visit Tian'anmen Square on Tuesday as the city experiences its most severe smog this year. ZHANG WEI/CHINA DAILY

1 Wear a face mask outside

If you have to go out, please remember to don a surgical face mask, or other anti-smog gear. You have many fashionable choices now.

2 Use an air filter at home

A great way to keep those hazy days out of your home is with a quality air filter. You could buy one or even DIY one (Do-it-yourself air). When you are at home, close the doors and windows, and turn on the air purifier!

3 Use apps to stay informed

Get the latest updates on air quality in your city with smart phone apps like Moji weather or Airpocalypse.

4 Avoid outdoor activities as much as possible

Complete daily routines indoors as much as possible. Exercise indoors, eat at indoor restaurants or order food delivery, shop indoors, etc.

5 Take your time

Whatever you decide to do, though, do it slowly; the more active you are outside, the more you'll breathe in those harmful particles.

6. Book a trip to cleaner cities like Hainan

The best way to escape from smog may be leaving the polluted city, if possible. Try cities with clearer skies.

Watch this video: Dealing with Beijing pollution, in which China Daily reporter D J Clark sets out to investigate what he can do to protect his family at home during smoggy days.

In addition to these tips, some people in China have come up with innovative ways to fight smog.