Air Quality Policy

The Darien Nature Center (DNC) will modify our outdoor activities when air quality is a concern. Currently, there is no specific recommendation or guidance about how long it is safe for a child to stay outside when air quality is unhealthy, however it is important to limit exposure and take frequent breaks when air quality is an issue.

The DNC will use the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency's website, airnow.gov, which uses data supplied by the CT Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). 

If the AQI gets to orange- (101-150) "unhealthy for sensitive groups", we will spend 1/2 of the program time indoors.

If the AQI reaches red- (151-200) "unhealthy" we will spend the majority of our time indoors.

If the AQI level gets to purple- (201-300) "very unhealthy", classes will be canceled.