Forest fire smoke prompts air quality warnings for some parts of northwestern Ontario | CBC News
[ad_1]
Environment Canada has issued air quality warnings for some parts of northwestern Ontario as smoke from wildfires in Alberta, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories drifts into the region.
The air quality warnings went into effect Monday morning for the following areas:
- Kenora
- Dryden
- Ignace
- Red Lake
- Ear Falls
- Pikangikum
- Sandy Lake
- Sioux Lookout
Environment Canada is also advising of local smoke or haze in some other areas of the region on Monday, including Thunder Bay, Atikokan, Nipigon, and Geraldton.
“Smoke from forest fires in northern Alberta, northern Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility,” the warnings state. “Air quality and reduced visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.”
“Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations. Everyone can take action to reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke.”
Environment Canada said people with lung or heart disease, older adults, children, and those who are pregnant or work outdoors are at higher risk of health effects caused by wildfire smoke.
People are advised to stop or reduce their activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable, and wear a well-fitted respirator-type mask if working outdoors.
[ad_2]
