Due to the wildfire smoke in the area, there is an Air Quality Alert for Foothills County.
This advisory includes De Winton, Okotoks, Aldersyde, and High River.
The wildfire smoke is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility, both of which can change significantly from hour to hour and over short distances.
While everyone can be affected by wildfire smoke, those who are more likely to be impacted by the wildfire smoke, such as those who are pregnant, smokers, infants, and young children, those who work and do strenuous exercises outdoors, and those who have existing illnesses or chronic health conditions, are advised to limit their outdoor activities when possible and to seek out medical attention if symptoms arise.
Mild symptoms may include eye, nose, and throat irritation, and serious, but less common, symptoms include chest pains and a severe cough.
With the fine particles in the smoke being the main cause of the health risk, as smoke levels rise, so do the health risks involved.
With it being advised to limit time outdoors, Environment Canada is suggesting keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible, but if there is a heat event occurring at the same time as an air quality alert, Environment Canada suggests prioritizing keeping the home cool.
To help keep the home as smoke-free as possible, make sure there is a good quality air filter in the home's ventilation system, or if there is a certified portable air purifier that can catch the fine particles from the smoke, that could work as well.
If spending time outdoors is a must, Environment Canada advises people to wear a well-constructed and well-fitting respirator-style mask, such as a NIOSH-certified N95 mask.
When possible, check on those who may be impacted by the wildfire smoke and make sure they are doing well.
To stay up to date on air quality alerts throughout the province, click here.