There isn’t an exact amount of time. The worse the air quality, the more important it is to take breaks, participate in less intense activities and watch for symptoms. Remember that people with asthma will be more sensitive to unhealthy air.

It depends. Ozone pollution is often worse on long, sunny days, especially during the afternoon and early evening. Particle pollution can be high any time of day. ADEQ currently offers forecasts in the following areas:

• Douglas | View > 
• Flagstaff | View >
• Hayden | View >
• Miami | View >
• Nogales | View >
• Phoenix | View >
• Prescott | View >
• Rillito | View >
• Tucson | View >
• Yuma | View >
  
  

Understanding the hourly forecast | Forecast Guidance >

It depends on which pollutant is causing the problem:

• Ozone pollution — If windows are closed, the amount of ozone should be much lower indoors, so it is ok to keep moving.
• Particle pollution — If the building has a forced air heating or cooling system that filters out particles, the amount of particle pollution should be lower indoors and it is ok to keep moving. It is important that the particle filtration system is installed properly and well maintained.

More pollution enters sensitive group's lungs when they are active for a longer period of time or when they participate in more intense activities. Decreasing activity (e.g., taking breaks or walking instead of running) helps reduce intensity and the amount of time spent breathing hard.

Ozone pollution is often worse on hot sunny days, especially during the afternoon and early evening. Plan outdoor activities in the morning, when air quality is better and it is not as hot.

Particle pollution can be high any time of day. Since vehicle exhaust contains particle pollution, limit activity near idling cars and buses and near busy roads when possible, especially during rush hours. Also, limit outdoor activity when there is smoke in the air.

Many cities have an Air Quality Index (AQI) that provides current and forecasted local air quality information. ADEQ forecasts offer public advisories based on the Environmental Protection Agency's AQI.

Encourage indoor activities that keep all students moving. Plan activities that include aerobic exercise and involve muscle and bone strengthening components (e.g. jumping, skipping, sit-ups or pushups). If a gymnasium or open space is accessible, promote activities that use equipment, such as cones, hula-hoops and sports balls. If restricted to the classroom, encourage students to come up with fun ways to get everyone moving (e.g., act out action words from a story). Teachers and recess supervisors can work with PE teachers to identify additional indoor activities.

An asthma action plan is a written plan developed with a doctor for daily management of asthma. It includes medication plans, control of triggers, and how to recognize and manage worsening asthma symptoms.