Action Steps for Special Air Quality Statement due to Wildfire Smoke

Point Edward, ON - Lambton Public Health is encouraging residents to take the proper precautions to protect their health as a Special Air Quality Statement has been issued for Sarnia-Lambton by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks and Environment and Climate Change Canada in response to wildfire smoke from forest fires in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and northern Ontario.

Wildfire smoke is expected to affect the area late this evening into the overnight hours and is expected to clear the area into Saturday morning.

A Special Air Quality Statement (SAQS) is issued when the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) value is forecast to reach the high-risk category (AQHI 7 - 10).

Children, older adults, pregnant individuals, people with chronic health conditions, and people who work outdoors are at a higher risk of experiencing negative health impacts because of poor air quality.

These at-risk populations are recommended to reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities and are encouraged to monitor for medical symptoms such as irritated eyes, increased mucous, and difficulty breathing, and to contact their healthcare provider if severe symptoms develop or if they need guidance.

For the general population it is recommended that they consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if they experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation. Anyone experiencing medical symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

It is recommended that all individuals stay up to date on the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) and change activities based on the AQHI table. Hourly updates on AQHI and guidance are available by checking or subscribing to Air Quality Ontario.

Additional tips to help your body cope with poor air quality and to prevent negative health impacts include:

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
• Reduce motorized vehicle use and take extra precautions if you live or work near
   Highway 402 as air quality is affected by traffic and prevailing wind conditions.
• 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.
• Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.
• Take care of your mental health. It is not unusual to feel anxious or stressed during poor air quality events. Local mental health supports are available at Age-Friendly Sarnia-Lambton

-30-

Please contact:

LPH Media Inquiries