Heavy smoke from regional wildfires has resulted in unhealthy air quality on the Pullman campus. Classes will proceed as normal but individuals are encouraged to stay indoors when not traveling to or from classes or work. Outdoor activities should be avoided, if possible. People experiencing respiratory distress should contact a health care professional immediately. Pullman students can contact Health & Wellness Services at 509-335-3575. Additional details on the air quality situation will be provided as they become available.

For information from Human Resource Services regarding air quality, see http://hrs.wsu.edu/resources/inclement-weather/wildfire-air-quality-faq/

 

Update 4:27PM:

Forecasts call for heavy smoke from regional wildfires to again cause unhealthy air quality on the Pullman campus on Wednesday, Sept. 6. Classes will proceed as normal but individuals are still encouraged to stay indoors when not traveling to or from classes or work.

WSU community members should take precautions to reduce exposure to unhealthy, smoky air. Breathing in smoke can have immediate health effects.

Older adults, pregnant women, children, and people with preexisting respiratory and heart conditions may be more likely to get sick if they breathe in wildfire smoke. If you experience any signs of respiratory distress or other health concerns, contact your health care provider.

There are many steps you can take for limiting exposure to unhealthy, smoky air.

Avoid being outdoors. Use public transportation rather than walking or biking.

Stay inside as much as possible. Keep indoor air clean by closing windows and using an air filter and air conditioning. Make sure your air conditioner’s fresh-air intake is closed and the filter is clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside.

Do not add to indoor pollution. Avoid using candles, fireplaces, or gas stoves. Do not vacuum, because vacuuming stirs up particles already inside your home. Do not smoke, because smoking puts even more pollution into the air. 

Follow your health care provider’s guidance. If you have asthma or another lung disease, follow your doctor’s advice about medicines and your respiratory management plan.

Wear a mask. Masks can help limit exposure to unhealthy, smoky air. Students can get a free basic mask from the clinic’s waiting and lobby area. The CDC advises against relying solely on basic masks for protection.

Students can purchase N95 masks at the Health & Wellness Services’ pharmacy for $1.50. These masks offer more protection than basic masks.