By Mikayla Holmes from everythinglubbock.com
The Lubbock Independent School District told parents in a message on Wednesday that students would be kept inside due to the low air quality caused by the Panhandle wildfires.
According to the message, students will be kept inside for recess and restricted outdoor activities for athletics.
“The health and safety of our students is our top priority, and this measure is in line with recommendations from health authorities to minimize exposure to smoke,” according to the district.
LISD said the poor air quality can pose health risks to children and “believe this action is necessary to ensure their safety.” The district also encouraged everyone to take the necessary precautions at home to ensure the health and safety of one’s family during this time.
Lubbock Cooper-ISD said it was leaving the decision to keep in students to the discretion of its campuses.
“LCISD campus and athletic administrators will determine on a case-by-case basis whether students will participate in outdoor recess or other outdoor activities,” LCISD said. However, students with respiratory issues will be “permitted” to stay indoors.
Dr. Julie St. John, Associate Professor for the Julia Jones Matthews School of Population and Public Health, told EverythingLubbock.com that the wildfire is causing smoke particles to enter the air, which causes inflammation in the airway.
Dr. St. John went on to say the smoke can trigger attacks for those with asthma as well create phlegm in a person’s throat, which can lead to excessive coughing. The medical professional encouraged individuals with chronic lung conditions such as asthma and COPD to wear a medical grade N95 mask to reduce the inhalation of smoke particles.