Take precautions in light of area’s poor air quality
Welcome to a new school year! As new and returning students move onto campus this weekend, we wanted to remind you of the fact we are experiencing an impact from the many wildfires throughout the Northwest. Although the air quality is of concern, the threat of fire on or near campus is not an issue.
It is important to know that when the air quality is compromised, even healthy people may experience irritation. Typical symptoms are coughing, scratchy throat, shortness of breath and stinging eyes.
For individuals who are sensitive to poor air quality, the high smoke levels can have a much stronger impact. We strongly recommend that those individuals take appropriate precautions. Please limit your time outdoors, keeping medications such as inhalers and eye drops nearby, and follow guidance from your doctor regarding your personal respiratory management plan.
Please follow these tips to minimize the impact of this poor air quality:
- Pay attention to the air quality reports. Updated color-coded reports can be found at airnow.gov.
- If you have asthma or other breathing-related issues, keep your inhaler or medication with you.
- Modify your activities. Minimize exertion when the air quality is poor.
- If you must be outdoors or exert yourself, such as during move-in, take plenty of breaks.
- Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.
For those who are concerned about the air quality, you are welcome to watch a live stream of the university welcome event (at 6 p.m. on Thursday) in Bauman Auditorium.