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Guidance on Whether to Hold School Outdoor Activities During Wildfire Events

Wondering whether it's safe to hold that practice or take the kids out for a hike? The Oregon Health Authority offers guidance for school activities during wildfires that you might find useful. It provides a primer on the Air Quality Index, the visibility index, what precautions to take if students have asthma or other health conditions and more.

Remember, children are particularly sensitive to smoke because their respiratory systems are still developing, their airways are smaller, and they breathe in more air per pound body weight. Children who may be more sensitive to air pollution include those with:
• Asthma
• Respiratory infection
• Lung or heart disease

These individuals should follow health care providers’ advice about prevention, treatment of symptoms, and monitor breathing and exposure.