Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement (SAQS) for parts of southwestern Ontario, including London and Middlesex County, due to wildfire smoke. Wildfire smoke is expected over the area today. Conditions are expected to slowly improve overnight, however, the potential for ground level smoke will continue into Friday. Wildfire smoke is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility. SAQS are issued when the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) has the potential to reach the high-risk category (AQHI between 7 and 10).

As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. You may experience mild 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.

To protect yourself against health risks from wildfire smoke, consider:

• Reducing outdoor activities, especially people more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including older adults, younger children, and people with an existing illness or chronic health condition such as lung or heart disease.
• Listening to your body and reducing or stopping activities if you experience breathing difficulties or other symptoms.
• Contacting your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve.
• When indoors, keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool.
• Using a good quality air filter in your home’s ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.
• Checking in on people who may be more susceptible to bad air quality.

For more information about the Air Quality Health Index, visit Air Quality Health Index - Canada.ca and Understanding Air Quality Health Index messages - Canada.ca

For more information about wildfire smoke, air quality and your health visit Wildfire smoke, air quality and your health: Overview - Canada.ca