Advisory says wildfire smoke to cause poor air quality in Okotoks

Environment Canada issued an air quality advisory for Okotoks and surrounding areas Friday morning as wildfire smoke is causing or expected to cause very poor air quality and reduced visibility. 

Environment Canada said air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour. It said during heavy smoke conditions, everyone is at risk regardless of their age or health. 

The fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main health risk. People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke such as seniors, pregnant people, people who smoke, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people involved in strenuous outdoor exercise and people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors. 

Symptoms can include milder and more common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, as well as serious but less common symptoms such as chest pains or severe cough. 

Environment Canada is encouraging people to limit their time outdoors and to consider rescheduling or cancelling outdoor sports, activities and events. When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. 

If you must spend time outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke. 

Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health. Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke. Take care of your mental health.  

Learn more at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke. 

Visit airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.