The following message was sent to PUSD families this morning from Superintendent Randy Booker. At the bottom are links to resources that are helpful to anyone concerned about wildfire smoke.
I’m writing to give you an update on the approach both Piedmont Unified and the Alameda County Office of Education is taking regard to the poor air quality across the Bay Area.
As I’m sure you’re aware, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is listed today at 126 (as of 8:30am). To view the latest Health Advisory and Spare the Air Alert issued by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, please visit [the BAAQMD website.]
Our Director of Facilities has shut down all HVAC units so that we’re not bringing in air from the outside as our units do not filter smoke.
Back in 2017 & 2018, during the Sonoma and Napa County Fires, Superintendent’s across ACOE determined that if the AQI reaches levels ranging from 101-150 (orange zone), all PE classes are to be held indoors.
Additionally, we will cancel all PE classes and halt athletic programs if the Air Quality Index hits anything above 150 (red zone).
Furthermore, if the AQI surpasses 200 (very unhealthy), I will confer with the Board of Education and the Superintendent for the Alameda County Office of Education to determine if we should issue a school closure.
Below are a number of resources to support our entire community during this wildfire season.
AirNow Bay Area – Hourly updates, does not crash as often as the EPA site
Five Day Forecast – “Spare the Air” predictions by region
Air Quality for Schools – EPA/CDC Flag System
See also Spanish version (Calidad del Aire)
Green – little or no risk.
Yellow = moderate/acceptable.
Orange = unhealthy for sensitive groups. Children should have less intense activities.
Red = unhealthy. Cancel or limit outdoor activities,
Purple = very unhealthy. Additional precautions – may lead to school closures.
Brown = hazardous. On map, not in flag system. Emergency conditions may lead to evacuations.
School First Aid for Asthma in Children
How to recognize and respond to respiratory distress
Protecting Your Health During Wildfire Season
From Alameda County Public Health – very useful local information. Also available in: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Arabic and Farsi (Link to folder with all languages here).
From CDC: How to decrease exposure. Also see: CDC guidance on wildfires and smoke, In Spanish as Protéjase contra el humo de los incendios forestales.
Wildfire Smoke Tips
Includes information on symptoms of wildfire smoke sensitivity, ways to reduce smoke exposure, respirator masks, portable air cleaners, emergency “go bag”
EPA guidelines for wildfire smoke – resources, guidelines re masks,
and more.
Choosing the Correct Mask for Wildfire Smoke
Explains the difference between N-95 (and other rated) masks vs. paper or surgical masks. Note, masks not generally recommended for children (see below)
Protecting Children from Wildfire Smoke and Ash
Tips for those in or near fire areas, as well as those affected by smoke.
Children in Disasters – Wildfires
Guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics
Lesson Plans for K-8 aligned to NGSS Standards