Air quality statement issued for Lakeland region

Downtown Bonnyville on Sunday morning.

A special air quality statement has been issued for the Bonnyville, Cold Lake, Lac La Biche, and St. Paul area by Environment Canada and Alberta Parks.

Although not as hazy in some parts of the region compared to earlier in the week, the air quality from the fires in northern Alberta is causing poor air quality and reducing visibility over portions of the province.

Northern Alberta will remain in areas of smoke this weekend and into next week.

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.

People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.

Stay inside if you have breathing difficulties, the statement warns.

Find an indoor place that’s cool and ventilated. Using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help. If you open the windows you may let in more polluted air. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, consider going to a public place (library, shopping mall, recreation centre) that is air-conditioned.