Just after 7:30 Tuesday morning, Environment Canada issued a special air quality statement due to smoke in the air.

Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility. Air quality conditions are expected to improve on Wednesday. Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations.

People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at

Stop or reduce your activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable or you or someone in your care feel unwell. Contact your health care provider or local health authority if you develop severe symptoms or need advice.

Mild irritation and discomfort are common, and usually disappear when the smoke clears. Drinking lots of water can help your body cope with the smoke.

 Keep your doors and windows closed if the temperature in your home is comfortable.  If you must spend time outdoors, a well-fitted respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH certified N95 or equivalent respirator) that does not allow air to pass through small openings between the mask and face, can help reduce your exposure to the fine particles in smoke.

Be sure to check on people in your care and those around you who may be more susceptible to smoke.