Jul 7, 2008 11:38 pm US/Pacific
Kids Face Additional Risk From Bad Air Quality
ROSEVILLE (CBS13) ―
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On a clear day, the Sacramento skyline can be seen from Davis. Monday, it was shrouded behind the smoke and haze.
CBS
With hundreds of fires still burning and a classic heatwave hanging over California, the smoke-filled air will not be clearing up anytime soon.
Some experts say the bad air has a greater impact on kids than healthy adults, and Roseville officials have begun taking steps to limit children's exposure.
It's the summer break, and smoky skies can't keep kids like Harrison Reagan inside all day. "I can't be out as long [as usual], only a couple hours at a time because of the bad air quality," the 13-year-old said.
The poor air quality reached unhealthy levels for everyone this afternoon, leading Roseville's Parks and Recreation Department to cancel soccer and tennis camps, a first for the city.
Officials say cancellations will be made on a day-by-day basis, but they expect more because of the smoky skies that are expected to remain through the week.
"There are other things we can do during hot times like take breaks, but when air quality is bad, we have the same advisory: It's not good for kids to be out," said Megan MacPherson.
There are others who have no choice but to beat the heat and bad air because it's part of their job. Kris Clark, a valet attendant, has found the air quality to be a hindrance.
"It's not fun, can't breath, hard to run," he said. "Got to work, got to pay the bills."
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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