Forest fire smoke causing poor air quality

Photo by Dan Jones CFWN, LJI

Environment Canada has issued an air quality warning for Northumberland County.

The Yellow Warning or Moderate said smoke from wildfires in northern Ontario is causing poor air quality for many communities in southern Ontario.

The warning asks people to limit their outdoor activities as smoke may cause increased health risks.  You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.

If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.

People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.

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.