Poor air quality continues in Southeast Public Health region

This information is shared on behalf of Southeast Public Health

Environment Canada continues to issue Special Air Quality statements for parts the region caused by wildfires in northwestern Ontario. Regularly check local weather forecasts and local air quality conditions using the Air Quality Health Index or special air quality statements.

Everyone is at risk for health impacts related to poor air quality; however, health risks are greatest for: infants and children, older adults, those living in high air pollution areas, people living with chronic illnesses (such as asthma, diabetes, heart or lung diseases), people who are pregnant, people who are underhoused or experiencing homelessness, people who work outdoors, or people participating in strenuous sports and outdoor activities.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath, Southeast Public Health (SEPH) recommends reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activity until the air quality improves.

As smoke levels rise, so do health risks. Take protective measures to protect yourself and others from the effects of wildfire smoke:

• Reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors, especially if you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.
• When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.
• Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Precautions can include using a clean, high-quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.
• If you must spend time outdoors, a well-fitted NIOSH-certified N95 respirator or equivalent may help reduce your exposure to harmful fine particles. Masks can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in smoke, but do not reduce exposure to gases.
• Check on people who may be more vulnerable to poor air quality, such as older adults, young children and people with existing health conditions.

Watch for symptoms of smoke exposure.

Mild and common symptoms of smoke exposure include: 

• sore and watery eyes
• runny nose and sinus irritation
• scratchy throat and mild coughing
• headache

Severe symptoms of smoke exposure include:

• shortness of breath
• wheezing (including asthma attacks)
• severe cough
• dizziness
• chest pains
• heart palpitations

Seek medical attention if you develop severe symptoms.

To learn more about the signs, symptoms and health effects of poor air quality from wildfire smoke visit SoutheastPH.ca/air-quality.