Utah Moms Push for Better Air Quality

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) A local mom says she's like a grizzly bear protecting her cub, willing to do what it takes to help her kids breathe easier. Cherise Udell has mobilized about 200 mothers who call themselves "Utah Moms for Clean Air," and they plan to start with simple changes:

"For example, idling your car is such a classic one," says Udell. "When you're sitting in front of the school talking on your cell phone waiting to pick up your children, and you don't turn off your car . . . that simple thing that parents can do. Stop idling after thirty seconds."

After a long winter of continuous red and yellow air quality days in Salt Lake City, Udell says Utah Moms for Clean Air is intent on getting the word out to lawmakers and local residents about the health consequences of polluted air. She hopes to raise enough money for a billboard campaign featuring babies smoking cigarettes:

"The pictures will be photoshopped of course!" says Udell. "And it will say, if this is not okay, then why is this okay? And show a really bad inversion day in Utah."

A group of Utah Physicians recently likened the dangers of poor air quality to smoking cigarettes. Udell says that report inspired her billboard idea, and a plan to offer seasonal tips for families that will reduce their polluting activities. For her own part, Udell says she will soon be trading her Jeep Cherokee for a hybrid vehicle.

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