Air quality warning issued for parts of Ontario due to wildfire smoke

There is an air quality advisory for Saturday due to wildfire smoke in parts of Ontario.

Environment Canada says wildfire smoke is causing or is expected to cause reduced visibility and rapidly changing air quality conditions.

While Mississauga, Brampton, Halton, Hamilton, and Durham are not currently affected by wildfire smoke, residents should still stay informed in case of changing conditions.

Health risks increase as smoke levels rise. Individuals are urged to limit time outdoors and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, events, and physical activities. People most at risk include older adults, pregnant individuals, infants, young children, those with chronic illnesses, and outdoor workers.

Common symptoms may include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, and mild coughing. More serious symptoms such as chest pain, severe coughing, or wheezing, require medical attention.

Residents in affected areas are advised to keep windows and doors closed and to use clean, high-efficiency air filters indoors. Portable air cleaners are also recommended.

Environment Canada notes on its website that if individuals have to go outside, wearing a well-fitted N95 mask can help reduce exposure, although some risk remains.It is also recommended to check in on vulnerable individuals in the area.

The following regions are currently under advisory:

• Armstrong – Auden – Wabakimi Park
• Beardmore – Jellicoe – Macdiarmid
• Cat Lake – Pickle Lake
• Ear Falls – Perrault Falls – Western Lac Seul
• Fort Severn
• Gull Bay – Black Sturgeon Lake
• Ignace – English River
• Kenora – Grassy Narrows – Whitedog
• Lansdowne House
• Nipigon – Rossport
• Peawanuck
• Pikangikum – Poplar Hill – MacDowell
• Red Lake – Woodland Caribou Park
• Sandy Lake – Deer Lake – North Caribou Lake
• Savant Lake – Sturgeon Lake
• Sioux Lookout – Eastern Lac Seul
• Sioux Narrows – Nestor Falls – Morson
• Webequie
• Weagamow Lake – Bearskin Lake
• Wunnummin Lake – Kingfisher Lake

If high heat is also present in your area, the weather agency advises prioritizing staying cool while maintaining indoor air quality.

For more details, visit canada.ca/wildfire-smoke and airhealth.ca for tips on minimizing exposure and tracking the Air Quality Health Index