Stanford University

Wildfire Smoke Update and SU EH&S Recommendations

Picture of campus with smoke in the air

Wildfires around the Santa Rosa and Napa areas combined with recent weather conditions have periodically brought severe wildfire smoke to the Bay area. Our thoughts go out to the communities that face the greatest threats from these wildfires.

Stanford University continues to monitor local air quality levels to assess the potential impact on personnel and operations. The University will continue to operate on normal schedule. However, the wildfire smoke will affect local ambient air quality, both outdoors and within buildings. Levels of wildfire smoke particle pollution are expected to be similar to those experienced yesterday.  The forecast for Friday and the upcoming weekend currently shows a lessening of the particle pollution levels, but that could change depending on the status of the North Bay fires and regional meteorological conditions.

At this time, all members of the campus community are encouraged to take the following common-sense steps to address their personal health and comfort:

  • Limit strenuous outdoor activity where possible.
  • For more susceptible populations including older adults, children, and those with pulmonary/respiratory conditions, minimize time spent outdoors.
  • When indoors, keep windows and doors closed.
  • In vehicles, use air-recirculation mode.
  • Drink plenty of water to help minimize potential irritation.

For individuals who may experience smoke-related health issues, we recommend consulting with one’s primary healthcare provider.

Masks

Given that the above precautions are taken, Stanford EH&S does not currently require the use of particulate masks for general indoor activities or low-intensity outdoor activities.  As local conditions change, EH&S will promptly update its recommendation as warranted.

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SPECIFIC CAMPUS GROUPS:
CHILDREN IN DAY CARE CENTERS:
  • Minimize outdoor activities and keep the children indoors as much as possible.  Parents who have specific health concerns should consult their child’s pediatrician for further advice.
STUDENTS:
  • Individuals experiencing smoke-related distress symptoms should contact Vaden Health Center for further consultation.
RESEARCH/WORK OPERATIONS:

PIs/Supervisors should review their group’s work activities and apply the following best practices:

  • Postponing prolonged or strenuous outdoor work.
  • Avoiding building-to-building foot travel where possible by scheduling video/phone conferencing, etc.
  • Keeping an open workplace dialogue, ensuring any related concerns and questions are communicated.
MORE INFORMATION:


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