As wildfire activity and winds increase across the Prairies and up north, Environment Canada is warning us to take care if spending any time outside.
In a statement which covers several cities and towns including Lloydminster, Environment Canada warns:
“Wildfire smoke concentrations can fluctuate over short distances and vary considerably from hour to hour. Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations. Continue to take actions to protect your health and reduce exposure to smoke.
People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke. Stop outdoor activities and contact your health care provider if you or someone in your care experiences shortness of breath, wheezing (including asthma attacks), severe cough, dizziness or chest pains. Stay inside if you are feeling unwell and experiencing symptoms.”
It’s recommended that even indoors, it’s best to keep windows closed, replace or clean any air filters on your furnaces, air conditioners or other circulators, and if working outside, take regular breaks indoors.
More information can be found at airhealth.ca.