September 21, 2012
AIR QUALITY ADVISORIES AND ATHLETICS
Attention Coaches, Parents, Players, Spectators and Officials:
As I am sure you are aware, there has been an issue with the air quality these past few weeks due to several wildfires burning in the surrounding areas, made more complex by stagnant air. As such, we have been monitoring the conditions as closely as possible. Like most weather related occurrences, it can be extremely difficult to predict what is going to happen beyond more than just a few hours in advance. This can make scheduling and/or needing to determine the playability of games extremely difficult, and we ask for your consideration and understanding of this in advance. In some instances, it may have to be a game time decision.
Part of our protocol is monitoring the Air Quality Index. This scale is used to determine how healthy the air is, and/or how it may affect individuals. The index rates 0 to 50 as "good,” 51 to 100 as "moderate”, 101 to 150 as "unhealthy for sensitive groups” and anything over 201 as very unhealthy to hazardous. Up to a score of 150, the general public is not likely to be affected. However, scores in the 101 to 150 range are cause for additional observation and moderation, particularly for those who may have issues with their heart or lungs, allergies or asthma.
As such, even if games are being played, we are asking coaches and officials to place more emphasis on substituting on a more frequent basis when conditions such as this exist. And, as a reminder, the emphasis of our program is on fun and participation, as well as the safety of our Club Members, and NOT on winning at all costs.
Again, we will do our best to monitor the situation, and make the needed adjustments as conditions merit. Again, thank you in advance for your cooperation and understanding.
Scott Schober
Athletic Director
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Lewis Clark Valley