Memo from OEC Commissioner to Providers About Current Air Quality
Date: June 7, 2023
To: Child care providers
From: Beth Bye, Commissioner
As I am sure you are aware, smoke from the Canadian wildfires continues to be present in Connecticut and forecasters have deemed air quality conditions “unhealthy.”
Higher smoke density is expected today than what was observed yesterday. An Air Quality Action Day for fine particulates has been issued by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) through midnight tonight and into the early morning hours of Thursday, meaning fine particulate concentrations within the region may approach or exceed unhealthy standards.
Programs may wish to:
- Subscribe to the Air Quality Index (ct.gov) posted by DEEP as this is updated daily and provides important information about Connecticut’s air quality
- Consult the Pollutant-Specific Cautionary Statements for the Air Quality Index (AQI) which categorizes air quality
According to the current levels, the Department of Public Health recommends that people with asthma or heart and lung conditions avoid outdoor exercise today. Child care program operators are always responsible for the health, comfort, and safety of the children and staff and are, therefore, advised to take necessary precautions, including limiting physical activity and outdoor activity.
Prevention tips to help children and staff to stay healthy
- Close windows and doors to help keep smoke out of the home/building
- Use air conditioning, if possible
- Keep children and staff indoors, if possible
- Restrict intense physical activity
See also the CT Department of Public Health’s related press release.