A special air quality statement is in effect for eastern Ontario and western Quebec. The statement was issued by Environment Canada Thursday, saying smoke caused by wildfires is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility over the area tonight into Friday morning -- the health risk will be high at these times. “As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events,” reads the statement. “You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.” The air quality statement extends as far west as Lake Huron, south into Toronto and Windsor, and north of Gatineau, Que. The weather agency says residents over the age of 55, pregnant women, workers who work outdoors and people with existing health conditions are at risk of being impacted by wildfire smoke. Those people are asked to protect themselves by limiting their exposure to smoke by staying indoors. “When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool,” reads the statement. “Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.” Those who must spend time outdoors are asked to wear a respirator type mask, such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator, reads the statement. The statement comes as fires continue to ravage the Prairies, prompting the province of Manitoba to declare a national emergency. Hundreds of Manitoba First Nations are seeking refuge in Niagara Falls, hundreds of kilometres away from home. More information about wildfire smoke is available at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke. With files from CTV News Toronto’s Alex Arsenych and Aarjavee Raaj
