RED DEER COUNTY – Environment and Climate Change Canada issued an air quality warning Monday for Red Deer County and nearby urban centres.
“Smoke is causing very poor air quality and reduced visibility,” the federal agency’s 7:20 a.m. Sept.1 weather alert said. “Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.”
Included in the air quality warning is:
• Red Deer County near Innisfail, Penhold, Bowden, Elnora, Lousana, Delburne, Pine Lake Spruce View, Red Lodge Provincial Park and Sylvan Lake.
Mountain View County was not included in the warning.
Monday also marked the sixth consecutive day the area remained under a heat warning.
“When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool,” the federal agency advised.
Air quality in the county is forecast to deteriorate throughout the day, according to the federal agency's air quality health index forecast.
“During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status. Limit time outdoors. Reschedule or cancel outdoor sports, activities and events,” the warning said.
“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 avoid strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms,” it continued.
Affected people 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,” the warning said.
