KENORA — A special air quality statement is in effect most of Northwestern Ontario
Environment Canada issued the statement in the late Friday morning as a result of smoke from forest fires over the prairies, which had caused or were expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility in the areas.
The air quality statement represents a lower level of concern than the air quality warning that had been in place for much of the region.
The area of concern stretches from the Manitoba border across the region and into northeastern Ontario and north from the U.S. border to Hudson Bay, however a more severe warning is in place through a large area in the far north, including Mishkeegogamang First Nation in the south and extending north of Bearskin Lake First Nation.
The only area in the region without an air quality notice of any kind is the area in and around Pikangikum First Nation, the city of Thunder Bay saw some brief reprieve.
As smoke levels and health risks increase, Environment Canada advises residents to limit time outdoors and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.
When indoors, the government department warned residents to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible and use a clean, good-quality air filter in their ventilation system or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles to protect indoor air from wildfire smoke.
However, when there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, the government department added that people should prioritize keeping cool.
If time must be spent outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator-type mask is encouraged to reduce exposure to the fine particles in the smoke, although there can still be health risks.
Environment Canada advised people to check in on others who are in their care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution.
In particular, people who are pregnant, work outdoors, are aged 65 and older, have an existing illness or chronic health condition and infants and young children are encouraged to reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms, as they are more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution.
Mild and common symptoms include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. While more serious and less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.
Those who believe they are having a medical emergency are advised to seek immediate medical assistance.
While this poor air quality may persist into Saturday for some areas, air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and vary greatly every hour.
Always follow guidance from local authorities, said Environment Canada.
More information on wildfire smoke and air quality is available online.
