An Air Quality Warning is in effect for parts of the Foothills.
Environment Canada issued the warning today (Sept. 2) at 4:52 a.m.
Wildfire smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility.
The Warning is in effect for the following areas:
- Kananaskis Improvement District near Highwood House
- M.D. of Ranchland
- M.D. of Pincher Creek near Cowley Burmis and Maycroft
- Foothills Co. near Priddis and Brown-Lowery Prov. Park
- Foothills Co. near Diamond Valley
- Foothills Co. near Longview and Eden Valley Res.
- Foothills Co. near Okotoks and De Winton
- Foothills Co. near High River and Aldersyde
- Foothills Co. near Cayley
- M.D. of Willow Creek near Nanton and Parklan
- M.D. of Willow Creek near Claresholm and Stavely
- Foothills Co. near Blackie
- Siksika Res. 146
- Vulcan Co. near Arrowwood Herronton and Queenstown
- Vulcan Co. near Vulcan and Ensign
- Vulcan Co. near Carmangay and Champion
- Vulcan Co. near Lomond Travers and Little Bow Reservoirs
- Vulcan Co. near Milo
- M.D. of Willow Creek near Granum and Peigan Timber Limit
Those over 65 years of age, infants and young children, people with existing illness or chronic health conditions are more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke.
Environment Canada recommends limiting time outdoors and rescheduling outdoor sports, activities, and events.
“During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status,” Environment Canada said.
Southern Albertans might experience symptoms, such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, or a mild cough.
Other symptoms include wheezing, chest pains, or a severe cough.
When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.