Hospital encourages visitors to stay home amid wildfire smoke

'To help maintain indoor air quality, we ask visitors to limit their visits at this time,' the hospital said in a social media post declaring a Code Grey Button Down event

As wildfire smoke blankets the city, Sault Area Hospital has requested the public reconsider visiting patients at this time. In a social media post this morning, the hospital said it has declared a Code Grey Button Down due to poor air quality in the community – meaning it’s taking external air exclusion measures according to the Ontario Hospital Association. “To help maintain indoor air quality, we ask visitors to limit their visits at this time,” the social media post stated.

“Reducing the number of door openings helps keep indoor air stable and supports the safety of everyone in the hospital.” The hospital said it's taking measures to maintain essential services and protect patients, staff, and visitors, with air handlers being adjusted throughout the building to improve indoor air quality. Surgeries and procedures will continue as scheduled at this time, the post said.

Outpatient visits will also continue, with patients “encouraged to make decisions about attending based on their personal health needs and current public health guidance.” Hospital staff will attempt to carry out patient home visits by phone when possible, and staff may be wearing appropriate PPE if in-person visits are required.