Southeast Public Health is urging residents to take precautions as poor air quality continues across the region due to wildfire smoke from northwestern Ontario.
Environment Canada has issued Special Air Quality Statements for parts of southeastern Ontario, with health officials warning that smoke can affect everyone, although some people face greater health risks.
Those most vulnerable include infants and children, older adults, pregnant people, individuals with heart or lung disease, asthma or diabetes, people experiencing homelessness, outdoor workers and anyone participating in strenuous outdoor activities.
Southeast Public Health recommends reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activity if you experience symptoms such as coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.
Residents are encouraged to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible, use high quality air filters or portable air cleaners indoors and check on neighbours or family members who may be especially vulnerable.
Officials say anyone who must spend time outdoors may benefit from wearing a well fitted NIOSH certified N95 respirator or equivalent, which can help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles.
Common symptoms of smoke exposure include sore or watery eyes, a runny nose, scratchy throat, coughing and headaches. More serious symptoms such as wheezing, severe coughing, chest pain, heart palpitations or shortness of breath require prompt medical attention.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local air quality conditions through the Air Quality Health Index and follow any updated advisories from Environment Canada.
