As wildfires continue to burn across the province, Environment and Climate Change Canada has released special air quality statements warning Albertans of health risks from smoke.
The statement was issued on June 10 by Environment Canada, which says wildfire smoke is causing locally poor air quality and reduced visibility. The statement is set to stay in effect until early morning on June 11.
Air quality and visibility caused by wildfire smoke can change quickly and vary significantly from one location to another and from hour to hour.
“As smoke levels increase, health risks increase," the Environment Canada statement said. "Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events. You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough.”
Less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or a severe cough. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, seek medical assistance.
St. Albert’s air quality is currently at a high-risk level of 7 on the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), with conditions expected to worsen to a very high-risk level of 10 later today and tonight. The AQHI, which rates health risks from air quality on a scale of one to 10+, it predicts improvement to a moderate level of six by tomorrow morning.
People over 65 years old, pregnant people, infants, young children and people with existing illnesses or chronic health conditions are more likely to be impacted by the outdoor air pollution. Those who work outdoors should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities.
The statement also recommends protecting your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Actions include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter out particles.
For those who must spend time outdoors, Environment Canada recommends wearing a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator mask, which can help reduce your exposure to particles in the smoke.
While exposure can be reduced, there can still be risks to your health.
“Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution,” said the statement.
