Northumberland hit hard by air quality warning

Smokey conditions impacting air quality in Northumberland County. Photo by Dan Jones, CFWN, LJI

By Cecilia Nasmith

While much of the area served by Lakelands Public Health is under a yellow Air Quality Warning, Cobourg, Colborne and Western Northumberland County have a more severe orange Air Quality Warning.

A bulletin issued Wednesday warns of conditions that range from moderate to very high risk for the ensuing 24 hours because of both heat and poor air quality that has resulted from spreading wild-fire smoke.

While this can impact anyone's health, the notice said, some populations may be more vulnerable, “including the elderly, people with certain medical conditions (e.g., cardiovascular, respiratory), people who are pregnant, and children and infants).”

It also noted increased risk for those who work or engage in strenuous outdoor activity and those who are unhoused.

Common symptoms of concern include sore and watery eyes, runny nose, sinus irritation, scratchy throat, mild coughing and headaches. More severe symptoms can include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.

The health unit offers tips to reduce health impacts from the poor air quality.

Keep windows and doors closed when indoors as much as possible.

Help protect indoor air with a certified portable air cleaner or the highest-quality air filter your ventilation system can take.

Those of higher risk should avoid strenuous outdoor activities.

If there is wildfire smoke in the area, consider wearing a well-fitting respiratory-type mask such as the N95.

The health unit reminds everyone that heat stroke is a medical emergency that warrants calling 911 in the event of certain symptoms. These include a body temperature higher than 102 degrees F (39 degrees C), hot dry-feeling red skin, throbbing headache, dizziness or passing out, severe nausea or vomiting, trouble speaking clearly, unusual co-ordination, fast breathing, faint or fast heartbeat, confusion or disorientation and dark urine.

To reduce your risk, stay hydrated, stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, wear loose-fitting light-coloured clothing, avoid strenuous activity, and consider visiting designated public cooling areas or public spaces that are air-conditioned.

And don't forget to check on your vulnerable neighbours.

The current heat event is expected to end Thursday, July 16.