Heat and wildfire smoke prompt health advisory in southeastern Ontario
Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for the South East Health Unit region, alongside an ongoing Heat Warning, as wildfire smoke combines with extreme temperatures this week.
Public Health officials say indoor temperatures can become dangerously high during extreme heat events, and when heat and wildfire smoke happen at the same time, staying cool should be the top priority.
People are advised to reduce or reschedule outdoor activities if they experience symptoms like coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Those at higher risk include people with heart or lung conditions, older adults, children, pregnant individuals, outdoor workers, and those with mobility challenges.
To help reduce health risks, Public Health recommends:
- Monitoring local air quality and weather alerts
- Limiting outdoor time, especially strenuous activities
- Keeping windows and doors closed indoors
- Using clean air filters or certified portable air cleaners
- Wearing a well-fitted NIOSH-certified N95 respirator if you must go outside
Free N95 masks are currently available to the public on a first-come, first-served basis at SEHU offices in:
- Belleville – 179 North Park St.
- Trenton – 499 Dundas St. West
- Bancroft – 1P Manor Lane
- Napanee – 99 Advance Ave.
- Cloyne – 14209 Hwy 41
- Kingston – 221 Portsmouth Ave.
- Brockville – 458 Laurier Blvd.
- Smiths Falls – 25 Johnson St.
People are urged to check on vulnerable individuals, including seniors, young children and those with pre-existing conditions.
Symptoms of heat illness can include dizziness, fainting, nausea, headache, rapid breathing, extreme thirst, and dark urine. Smoke exposure symptoms may include watery eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, and coughing. More severe reactions include shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing and heart palpitations.
Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical help immediately.
More information about health risks related to wildfire smoke and extreme heat is available through Health Canada’s online resource Wildfire Smoke 101.