An Air Quality Alert has been issued for Foothills County.
Due to the wildfire smoke, Foothills County residents can expect to experience very poor air quality and reduced visibility.
While everyone is at risk during these heavy smoke conditions and should limit time outdoors, those who are particularly vulnerable including pregnant people, seniors, smokers, infants and young children, and those with pre-existing illnesses or chronic health conditions should take extra care to avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
During times of heavy smoke, it's advised to keep an eye out for symptoms, and if any should arise, it's best to stop or reduce outdoor activities.
Symptoms may include eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as more serious but less common symptoms like chest pains and severe coughing.
If anyone thinks they are having a medical emergency, seek medical assistance immediately.
While indoors, it's advised to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible to help keep the smoke out of the home, but if there is also a heat event occurring, Environment Canada suggests prioritizing keeping cool and following the health advice and guidance from local authorities.
Other ways to help keep wildfire smoke from stinking up the home are using a good quality air filter in home ventilation systems and using a certified portable air purifier that filters out fine particles.
If it is unavoidable to be outdoors, then a well-fitting and properly worn respirator-style mask can help to reduce the number of fine particles being breathed in, but even with a mask, there can still be health risks involved.
When possible, Environment Canada is reminding people to check in on those who are under your care or those who may live nearby and are more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke.
To stay up to date on the air quality alerts in the province, click here.