The fire levels in Western Canada are increasing, and with them, more smoke is making its way into Ontario.
Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for Peterborough, Lakefield and southern Peterborough County as wildfire smoke moves through the region this morning and into the early afternoon.
The smoke is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility. People may experience symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or mild coughing. Those with underlying health conditions, along with seniors, young children, pregnant people and outdoor workers, are especially at risk.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors and consider rescheduling strenuous activities. Keeping windows closed, using clean air filters and wearing a well-fitting N95 mask outdoors can help reduce exposure.
Roshini Kassie is an air quality specialist with the Water and Air Quality Bureau at Health Canada.
She is encouraging everyone to start regularly checking for air quality alerts over the next few months. These alerts can be found on any platform where you typically get your weather information online.
When heavy smoke drifts into an area, everyone is at risk.
That said, Kassie notes that some individuals should be especially cautious.
She also recommends checking the air filters in your home. If you’re particularly sensitive to smoky conditions, you might want to consider using an air purifier indoors.
Regardless of your age or health status, if you’re caught outside during smoky conditions, it’s important to stay aware and take precautions.
If the air quality is poor, limiting your time outdoors is the best way to reduce your exposure.
Several organizations that care for children already have systems in place for monitoring air quality—but it’s often the adults who ignore the warning signs.
Kassie pointed out that many Canadians have enjoyed clean, high-quality air for most of their lives. Because of that, it can be difficult to accept the need to stay indoors—especially when outdoor activities or events are planned.
This is just the beginning of wildfire season, so now is the time to build the habit of checking the air quality daily. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing should seek medical attention immediately.
