Air quality statement issued for Sudbury area due wildfire smoke

Public Health Sudbury and Districts reminds people that wildfire smoke can pose health risks

Article content Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued an air quality statement for Greater Sudbury and surrounding communities as smoke from ongoing wildfires continues to affect the region. The advisory covers Greater Sudbury, Manitoulin Island, West Nipissing, French River, Espanola, Massey, Killarney, Chapleau and Missinaibi Lake. Recommended Videos Public Health Sudbury and Districts is reminding residents that wildfire smoke can pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups, including older adults, pregnant people, infants and young children, smokers, people who work or exercise outdoors, and those with existing heart, lung, cancer or diabetes-related conditions.

“Mild symptoms from wildfire smoke can usually be treated at home and may include a mild cough, headache, and eye, nose, or throat irritation,” said Adam Ranger, environmental support officer with Public Health Sudbury and Districts’ Health Protection Division. People experiencing more serious symptoms are encouraged to seek medical advice through Health811 by visiting health811.ontario.ca or calling 811. In an emergency, call 911.

“Watch out for severe cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, dizziness, chest pain, and irregular heartbeat,” Ranger said. Health officials say the best way to protect yourself is to limit exposure to smoke. People are encouraged to reduce strenuous outdoor activity, keep windows and doors closed, and use a portable air purifier when possible.

Those who must spend time outdoors may benefit from wearing a well-fitted NIOSH-certified N95 or elastomeric respirator to reduce exposure to fine smoke particles. Additional recommendations include: * Checking the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) before heading outdoors and signing up for alerts through the WeatherCAN app. * Using the highest-quality furnace or ventilation filter recommended by the manufacturer, ideally a MERV 13-rated filter.

* Spending time in air-conditioned public spaces such as community centres, libraries or shopping malls if indoor air quality at home is poor. * Paying attention to mental health and well-being during prolonged smoke events.

Officials note that air quality conditions can change quickly and residents should continue monitoring forecasts and advisories. For more information, visit phsd.ca or airqualityontario.com, or contact Public Health at 705-522-9200.