Environment Canada warned of poor air quality across southwestern Ontario this week due to the wildfires burning in the prairies, British Columbia and northern Ontario. Hazy conditions were reported in the province on Thursday and continued into Friday. “The smoke has gone as far south as northern Florida. And there have been reports that it has traveled as far as Western Europe,” Rob Kuhn, a severe weather meteorologist from Environment Canada, told CTV News. The agency said northerly winds were expected Friday evening and it would likely improve air quality. “If our wind direction becomes more southwesterly and stays like that, for example, or more southerly, the smoke eventually will get blown out. And then, interestingly enough, our air quality will probably improve,” Kuhn explained. It was a challenge for anyone who spent time outdoors. “It stings in the eyes,” said a woman visiting St. Jacobs on Friday. “It makes the eyes run, and in the throat…. kind of a sick feeling in the back of the throat. “ Health risks Symptoms include mild eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or even a mild cough. In severe cases, people could experience wheezing, chest pains and a severe cough. “We do know that over time, repeated exposure to bad air quality can worsen underlying health conditions like asthma or lead to new problems with breathing or heart disease or blood pressure,” said Dr. Matthew Tenenbaum, the associate medical officer of health for Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health. Those most affected by poor air quality are people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants, young children, people who work outdoors and anyone with an existing or chronic condition. Residents are urged to check on their neighbours or loved ones who fall into these categories. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Reducing the impact Residents are encouraged to limit their time outdoors and keep their windows and doors closed as much as possible. “If you are outdoors, limiting the level of exertion,” said Tenenbaum. “For example, really intensive aerobic sports on a poor air quality day are probably something worth minimizing.” A proper-fitting face mask, such as a NIOSH-certified N95 respirator, may be helpful for those who work outdoors. At home, a good quality air filter or a certified portable air cleaner can help filter out some of the fine particles in the air. Air Quality Health Index Experts said it’s also important to keep an eye on the Air Quality Health Index. “The higher that number is, the more you have to be cautious and take certain kinds of precautions in your activities,” Tenenbaum suggested. Waterloo Region was at 10 on the index Thursday night, indicating a high level of risk. By 6 p.m. on Friday, it had dropped to a 6.
