For Immediate Release
October 30, 2003

Contact: Howard Sutter
(714) 834-2178

To Trick Or Treat Or Not To Trick Or Treat, That Is The Question

(Santa Ana) – Public health concerns about Southern California’s smoky air have many parents wondering if they should change or cancel their children’s plans for Halloween trick or treat activities.

While there is no exact answer for this question, Orange County Health Officer Dr. Mark Horton says parents should take certain factors into consideration. “Much will depend on the air quality Friday and the proximity of the individuals to the fires. Safety should be our first concern when it comes to the health of our children and our families,” said Dr. Horton. “This may be a good year to consider participating in the indoor activities offered in many communities, such as Halloween carnivals or Fall Festivals held at schools, community centers and other community facilities.”

The South Coast Air Quality Management District provides forecasts of air quality on its Web site at www.aqmd.gov and offers information by telephone at 1-800-CUT-SMOG (800-288-7664). Area newspapers also feature air quality information on their weather pages. If air quality is still considered to be “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with heart and lung disease should limit the time they spend outdoors and minimize physical exertion. Parents should monitor their children’s health for physical symptoms including shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. Asthma management plans should be followed carefully and parents should ensure they have adequate medication on hand for children with asthma and other lung conditions.

The use of filtration masks is not recommended for most people. These masks may not filter out the most harmful particles and they may interfere with children’s costumes or become a distraction, creating a potential safety hazard.

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