As of Nov. 15, the Bay Area has the worst air quality in the world. Uncertainty, apprehension, and smoke fill the mid-November atmosphere, as poor conditions persist. The residual effects are a combination of the multiple fires throughout California, and the geographic and atmospheric conditions of the region.
Responses to the environment are widespread. With dozens of districts canceling school on Friday, Nov. 16, public transit halting, and hazardous conditions continuing for a projected four more days, Bay Area residents look for answers regarding the gravity of the situation and whether or not they should be concerned.
Like the greater Bay Area, Carlmont students, teachers, parents, and administration have concerns over the implications of canceling school. Many question the validity of the cancelation, or what actions should be taken to limit harm, or how to get involved.
First, a few questions should be answered:
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SHOULD WE BE CONCERNED ABOUT SMOKE INHALATION?
WHY IS IT WORSE HERE THAN PLACES CLOSER TO THE ACTUAL FIRES?
ARE BREATHING MASKS EFFECTIVE?
HOW IS THIS AFFECTING SPORTS?
WHAT ARE ATHLETES SAYING?
HOW DOES THE DISTRICT RESPOND?
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WHAT DO TEACHERS THINK?
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students respond
“I think that in the end, the school district is doing the right thing; the general health and well-being of the students and staff should always be the highest priority of any educational institution.”
Collin Lucett, senior
“When people’s houses are burning, I think that we have to think about the families affected by the fire, not just the smoke. People have it worse than us, so I don’t worry too much. I do think it’s fair that we get school off, though.”
Robert Plyer, junior
“I think closing school was a good call, especially because most of the high school campuses are outdoors. It ultimately keeps everyone much safer and healthier, and also allows people to take their minds off school for a day.”
Elise Hsu, freshman
“Canceling school [on Nov. 16] was the right choice by the school district, however, they should have canceled a day or two earlier because I’ve gotten a sore throat just walking from class to class. Although all the surrounding schools and districts are closed, I did not expect Carlmont and the school district to close because we had the same issue last year and nothing happened then.”
Emily Livesay, sophomore
How can we help?
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The California Fire Foundation provides immediate aid for victims of natural disasters like the California wildfires. Through their program, Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE), front-line firefighters supply victims with $100 gift cards so that they may purchase food, clothing, medicine, and whatever else they deem necessary for their well being.
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While the Los Angeles Fire Department has been emotionally overwhelmed by the donation of goods, what they really need at the moment are monetary donations that will go towards hydration backpacks for the firefighters. This way, they can efficiently and effectively continue to fight the wildfires in Southern California.
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The United Way Los Angeles is partnering with Red Cross among other organizations to provide aid for those directly affected by the current California wildfires. The funds collected will primarily support low-income individuals and families affected by the fires and help them rebuild their lives.
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