Be safe if you’re going out as smoke is in the air today.
At 6:58 p.m. Wednesday, Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a Special Air Quality Statement for several communities across Huron and Perth including Stratford.
Wildfire smoke from forest fires over the prairies have moved into the area, causing or is expected to cause, poor air quality and lowered visibility.
Huron Public Health says this air quality “may persist through the day and is expected to improve later today.”
“As smoke levels increase, health risks increase,” said Huron Public Health.
“Although wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health, some people are more likely to be affected.”
The health organization says the people who would be most affected include age 65 and older residents, pregnant people, infants, young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, people who smoke, those experiencing housing insecurity, and those who work outdoors.
To keep yourself safe, Huron Public Health encourages you to monitor for any coughing, throat irritation, shortness of breath, dizziness or chest pain and to get medical help if needed.
“Protect the indoor air in your home by keeping windows and doors closed, and using air conditioning, or fans,” said Huron Public Health.
“Properly seal windows and doors with weather stripping, set your ventilation system to recirculate when the outdoor air is poor and bring in fresh air when outdoor air has improved, and use a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system.”
The organization adds if you need to go outside, wear a N95 mask or another respirator, which you can grab from their Stratford West Gore and Clinton Office.
