Air quality advisory for Cold Lake and M.D. of Bonnyville, wildfire being held north of Cold Lake

Bonnyville on July 19.

Air quality has significantly decreased in recent hours as the skies in the Lakeland are filled with wildfire smoke.

An air quality advisory, along with the continued heat warning, has been issued by Environment Canada.

The Alberta Wildfire map shows that a fire just north of Cold Lake, in the Lac La Biche Forest Protection Area, is being held at the moment.

MEG’s Christina Lake site, 150 kilometres south of Fort McMurray, saw some non-essential staff evacuate the area yesterday.

So far, there is no disruption for the City’s Full Throttle Festival downtown. Updates for the Cold Lake Air Show, if there are updates, can be found on their website and social media channels.

Environment Canada advisory

The combination of heat and very poor air quality in smoke will increase the risk to your health. During heavy smoke conditions, everyone is at risk regardless of their age or health. The fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main health risk. People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke such as seniors, pregnant women and pregnant people, people who smoke, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people involved in strenuous outdoor exercise and people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors. Listen to your body and if you experience symptoms, reduce or stop outdoor activities.

Symptoms can include milder and more common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, as well as serious but less common symptoms such as chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance. Limit time outdoors. Consider rescheduling or cancelling outdoor sports, activities and events. When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool. Always seek out and follow health guidance from local authorities.