Special Air Quality Statement Issued

Environment Canada

(Locations listed below description)

Forest fires spread across Central and northern prairies are sending plumes of smoke throughout parts of Manitoba. The most dense smoke will be in the vicinity and downwind of the fires. The largest fires are Northeast of Flin Flon, over East Central Manitoba and the northern Interlake. North to Northwest winds will spread this thicker smoke through parts of southern Manitoba today and Monday.

Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

Due to the Smoky conditions, individuals living in or travelling to the above noted areas are advised to be aware of potential health concerns that can be associated with current air conditions. In these current conditions, even healthy individuals may experience sore eyes, tears, coughing and a runny Nose.

In areas affected by smoke from Wildland fires, manitobans are encouraged to: - Limit outdoor activity and/or strenuous physical activity; if breathing becomes difficult or uncomfortable, stop or reduce the activity - reduce exposure to smoke by staying indoors or moving to areas with cleaner air, as conditions can vary dramatically by area - turn off furnaces and air-conditioning units that may draw smoke indoors - keep indoor air cleaner by avoiding smoking or burning other materials

people at higher risk include Young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with Heart or lung conditions (particularly asthma), and therefore should avoid as much exposure to smoke as possible.

Manitobans with health questions or concerns can contact their health-care provider or call health links - info sante at 204-788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257. More information on the health effects of smoke is available at www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/environmentalhealth/smoke.html.

If you or those in your care are exposed to wildfire smoke, consider taking extra precautions to reduce your exposure. Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gases which includes many chemicals that can harm your health. For more details, please consult www.Canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/air-quality-health-index/wildfire-smoke.html.

Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.

end/paspc

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