Back-to-School Air Quality Advisories

Chelan-Douglas Counties, WA – Students across Chelan and Douglas County return to school next week. Air quality in Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Plain and Chelan is currently hazardous. Similar conditions are likely to continue during the initiation of back-to-school next week. Washington State Department of Health has the following recommendations to help school districts make safe decisions for students during school activities:

• Monitor the current air quality via Department of Ecology Air Monitoring Network;

• The Air Pollution and School Activities Guide, provides recommendations for recess, P.E., and athletic events during smoky conditions; and

• Improve Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality during Wildfires by keeping indoor air free of smoke.

Although school closure is at the discretion of each individual School District, parents can also follow these steps to protect their children’s health:

• Stay informed on air quality via Department of Ecology Air Monitoring Network;

• Avoid smoky air and limit children’s time outdoors;

• Keep indoor air clean and Improve Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality during Wildfires; and

• Contact medical provider if current medical conditions worsen around smoke.

Additional Resources:

Chelan-Douglas Health District

Washington State Department of Health

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