An Air Quality Advisory has been issued for Foothills County.
Environment Canada issued the advisory on the morning of Wednesday, July 24th due to wildfire smoke causing or expected to cause very poor air quality and reduced visibility.
Due to the wildfire smoke, air quality and visibility can fluctuate over short distances, as well as from hour to hour.
The particles in the air from the wildfire smoke pose a health risk, and if the smoky conditions are heavy.
While everyone is at risk, regardless of age and health, those who are pregnant, seniors, those who smoke, infants and the young, those who work outdoors, and those with either existing illness or chronic health conditions should take extra precautions and do their best to avoid strenuous activities outdoors.
According to Environment Canada Meteorologist Brian Proctor, that while they don't have an Air Quality Health Index for the Okotoks region, they have an idea of where it's at due to our proximity to Calgary.
"We issue those forecasts for areas where we have observation sensors of particulate matter and other pollutant parameters," Proctor explains. "So, the closest I would have to your area is Calgary. We have a number of stations in the Calgary area, and we do have a forecast out for them of an Air Quality Health Index today of 10+, so a very high risk."
He adds that the air quality will gradually improve throughout the day.
"It's a High Risk tonight and then to a Moderate Risk tomorrow and I would expect those conditions very representative of what we likely would be seeing in the Okotoks area as well. Largely due to the fact that primary driver of the Air Quality Health Index at this time of the year is wildfire smoke and that fine particulate matter that comes from wildfire smoke. And that's really what's pushing the Index Very High at this point in time. And that's the reason for the Air Quality Advisory that's out for the Okotoks area."
Proctor says that Wednesday is expected to be the worst day for air quality this week.
During times of Air Quality Advisories, it is best to keep an eye on any symptoms that may arise.
Symptoms may include eye, nose, and throat irritation, chest pains, and coughing, and in cases of medical emergencies, seek out medical assistance immediately.
It's advised to help keep the interior of homes free from smoke by either using a higher quality air filter in the building's ventilation system or a portable air purifier that can collect fine particles, and keeping the windows closed as much as possible.
If you must be outside during this advisory, a properly worn respirator-type mask can help reduce how much particles can get into the lungs.
Also, they are reminding people to check in on those who may be impacted by the wildfire smoke to make sure they are doing well.
To see the Air Quality Health Index across Canada, click here.