These guidelines provide recommendations for when to schedule indoor versus outdoor recess based on Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 levels and the Air Quality Index (AQI). You can monitor current PM2.5 levels at air.utah.gov by clicking on "Current".

Recess Recommendations Based on PM2.5 Levels

The guidelines specify three levels of PM2.5 and the corresponding recess recommendations:

• PM2.5 above 55.5 μg/m3 (or AQI ≈150 and above ):

  • All students stay indoors.

• PM2.5 between 35.5−55.4 μg/m3 (or AQI ≈100−150 ):

  • Students with respiratory symptoms and sensitive students stay indoors.

  • Respiratory symptoms may include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

  • Sensitive students may include those with asthma, cystic fibrosis, chronic lung disease, congenital heart disease, compromised immune systems, or other respiratory problems.

• PM2.5 below 35.4 μg/m3 (or AQI ≈100 and below ):

  • All students outdoors.

Important Notes for Parents and Schools

• Parental Guidance: Parents, with the advice of a healthcare provider, should inform the school if they believe their child is part of a sensitive group and requires limited outdoor physical activity when the air quality is poor.

• School Authority: The school makes the final decision regarding when and where to hold recess.

• Indoor Recess Activity: For indoor recess, schools are encouraged to consider active options.

Click here to review the full Recess Guidance for Schools