Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for Rocky View County near Airdrie and Crossfield, warning that smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility.
As of 8:00 a.m. MDT, Airdrie’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) was measured at 3 (low risk). But conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly, with forecast levels climbing to 9 (high risk) Tuesday afternoon and 8 (high risk) Tuesday night. The AQHI is expected to ease to 4 (moderate risk) by Wednesday and remain there into Wednesday night. The forecast health message was issued at 8:29 a.m. MDT.
Earlier Tuesday morning, although the local Environment Canada forecast did predict widespread smoke for Airdrie, no air quality statement had yet been issued.
The official advisory was released at 8:30 a.m., warning that air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke "can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour."
"As smoke levels increase, health risks increase," the statement reads. "Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events."
The notice outlines common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pain or severe cough. People experiencing severe symptoms are advised to seek medical assistance immediately.
Vulnerable groups include "people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors." Health officials recommend those individuals reduce or reschedule outdoor exertion and consult medical professionals if symptoms occur.
Indoors, residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. If heat becomes an additional risk, officials say keeping cool should be the priority.
"Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke," the statement continues. "Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles."
For those who must go outside, wearing a "well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator)" may reduce exposure to fine particulate matter. However, health risks may still persist even with a mask.
Residents are encouraged to check in on neighbours and others in their care who may be more sensitive to smoke exposure.
"Always follow guidance from local authorities," the statement concludes.
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