When the Air Quality Index indicates unhealthy air, how should schools respond?

• A. No changes; continue activities as planned.
• B. Only sports activities should be canceled.
• C. Outdoor activities should be modified or moved indoors, and students with asthma monitored.
• D. Increase outdoor time to build tolerance.

Answer: (C)

Unhealthy air means students are at higher risk of respiratory irritation and asthma symptoms, so the priority is to reduce exposure. Outdoor activities should be adjusted by moving them indoors or shortening/altering them to avoid prolonged outdoor exertion in polluted air. Students with asthma should be monitored closely and have easy access to their inhalers and a plan if symptoms arise. This approach keeps physical activity possible while protecting health, rather than ignoring the risk, limiting only one type of activity, or increasing outdoor time.