Smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility for Whitecourt and surrounding areas.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), a poor air quality statement is in effect for all areas including:
- Big Lakes County near Swan Hills
- M.D. of Greenview near Fox Creek
- Woodlands Co. near Benbow and Windfall
- Woodlands Co. near Carson-Pegasus Prov. Park
- Woodlands Co. near Goose Lake
- Woodlands Co. near Whitecourt and Blue Ridge
- Yellowhead Co. near Edson and Sundance Prov. Park
- Yellowhead Co. near Peers and Niton Junction
- Westlock, Barrhead, and Athabasca
Officials with Environment and Climate Change Canada say air quality and reduced visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.
Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations. Continue to take actions to protect your health and reduce exposure to smoke.
People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke. Stop outdoor activities and contact your health care provider if you or someone in your care experiences shortness of breath, wheezing (including asthma attacks), severe cough, dizziness or chest pains. Stay inside if you are feeling unwell and experiencing symptoms.
Keep your indoor air clean. Keep your doors and windows closed if the temperature in your home is comfortable. Use an air purifier with a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter in a room where you spend a lot of time. Avoid air purifiers that produce ozone. Check the filter and change it if required. For more information visit https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/healthy-living/using-portable-air-cleaner-wildfire-smoke.html.
Click here for the latest update on the Special Air Quality Statement.
