Orange Air Quality Warning Remains in Effect for Peterborough and Surrounding Area
/By Scott Arnold
An Orange Air Quality Warning remains in effect for Peterborough as smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario continues to create very poor air quality and reduced visibility.
An Orange Air Quality Warning remains in effect for Peterborough due to wildfire smoke (photo by scott arnold)
The warning, issued by Environment Canada Thursday morning, covers Peterborough City, Lakefield and southern Peterborough County. Forecasters say air quality could improve later Thursday in some areas, but conditions may deteriorate again late Friday or Saturday.
Environment Canada says heavy wildfire smoke can affect everyone's health, regardless of age or existing health conditions. Residents are encouraged to limit time outdoors and consider rescheduling or cancelling outdoor sports, activities and events while the warning remains in effect.
Exposure to wildfire smoke can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and a mild cough. More serious symptoms, including wheezing, chest pain or a severe cough, require immediate medical attention.
People at greater risk, including older adults, pregnant people, infants and young children, those with chronic health conditions and people who work outdoors, should avoid strenuous outdoor activity and seek medical attention if they develop symptoms.
Residents are encouraged to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible to reduce smoke indoors. However, if indoor temperatures become dangerously hot, staying cool should take priority.
Anyone who must spend time outside should limit their exposure as much as possible. A properly fitted respirator, such as a NIOSH-certified N95 mask or equivalent, can help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles, though it does not eliminate all health risks.
Smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario continues to affect air quality across the region. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
Very poor air quality and reduced visibility are expected while the warning remains in effect. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
Environment Canada says heavy wildfire smoke can affect everyone's health. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
Residents are encouraged to limit time outdoors during periods of heavy smoke. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
Outdoor sports, activities and events may need to be postponed or rescheduled while air quality remains poor. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
Wildfire smoke can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and a mild cough. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
Older adults, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic health conditions are at greater risk from wildfire smoke. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
People who work outdoors are encouraged to take extra precautions during poor air quality conditions. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
Keeping windows and doors closed can help reduce smoke indoors when temperatures allow. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
If you must be outside, a properly fitted N95 respirator can help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
Residents are encouraged to check in on neighbours, family members and others who may be more vulnerable to wildfire smoke. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
Environment Canada says the warning remains in effect and residents should continue monitoring the latest forecasts and alerts. (Photo by Scott Arnold)
