Medford, OR – Jackson
County and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) public health officials are advising schools
and athletic departments to be aware of wildfire smoke and utilize the Public Health Guidance for School Outdoor
Activities During Wildfire Smoke Events to make decisions as it pertains to youth having recess, P.E.,
athletic practices, and events outdoors.
School officials are
encouraged to check the local Air Quality Index on the DEQ website and then do
a visual inspection outside. Performing a visibility test is important because
air monitors report out using an hour and 24-hour average, and smoke levels can
rise and fall very quickly. It is recommended to err on the side of caution.
“Children are
particularly sensitive to smoke because their respiratory systems are still
developing. In addition, their airways are smaller, and they breathe in more
air per pound body weight. Schools should consider more indoor exercise options
when air quality is at unhealthy and unhealthy for sensitive groups due to
wildfire smoke,” says Dr. Shames, Jackson County Public Health, Health Officer.
During a wildfire,
Jackson County and OHA public health officials advise that adults watch for
symptoms that youth may experience from wildfire smoke. Wildfire smoke can make
asthma symptoms worse and trigger asthma attacks. Symptoms of asthma include
coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness. Even students
without known asthma can have symptoms when exposed to unhealthy levels of
wildfire smoke pollution. Students with asthma should follow their Asthma Action
Plan. This will help them decide if they need to take special precautions while
engaging in outdoor activities. Athletes with asthma should have rescue
inhalers readily available. Use should be as directed by their health care
provider. Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a health care provider.
Call 911 in an emergency.
·
For more information on using the
visibility index during wildfires http://www.oregon.gov/deq/aq/Pages/Wildfires-Visibility.aspx
·
Public Health Guidance for School Outdoor
Activities During Wildfire Smoke https://apps.state.or.us/Forms/Served/le8815h.pdf
·
For information on smoke and wildfires in
Oregon, visit http://oregonsmoke.blogspot.com/ For information on smoke and wildfires in
California, visit http://californiasmokeinfo.blogspot.com/
·
For more information about wildfires and
health threats from wildfire smoke, go to
http://public.health.oregon.gov/Preparedness/Prepare/Pages/PrepareForWildfire.aspx
CONTACTS: Dr. Jim Shames, Jackson County Public Health, Health Officer, 541-951-8838
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