Heat warning ends but Air Quality Warning continues in Quinte

It will be a bit cooler but breathing difficulties are still a concern Thursday in Quinte. Environment Canada has cancelled the Heat Warning for the a...

It will be a bit cooler but breathing difficulties are still a concern Thursday in Quinte. Environment Canada has cancelled the Heat Warning for the area, with cooler air making for a much cooler evening on Wednesday and a slightly lower high for Thursday of 26. Wildfire smoke is still a major factor, with impacts on visibility and potential breathing issues (and a noticeable burning smell).

Environment Canada’s full advisory (issued again early Thursday morning) is included below. ADVISORY FROM EC – Smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility. Conditions may improve for some areas tonight.

As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.

People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including 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, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms. When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool.

Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Actions can include using the highest quality air filter that your ventilation system can handle and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles. If you must spend time outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke.

Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health. Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke.