Grey Bruce Public Health is urging you to take precautions and minimize the time you spend outdoors, as the air quality in the region is now considered “very high risk.”
Smoke from wildfires in northern Ontario has blanketed much of southern Ontario, including Grey Bruce, and Environment Canada says the conditions could persist through Friday.
The Health Unit says in a release the Grey Bruce region now has an expected air quality risk level of 10-plus — the highest possible. That’s expected to remain for the rest of today, before easing slightly to nine on Thursday, which is still considered high-risk.
“Everyone’s health, regardless of age or health status, is at risk during periods of very poor air quality and during heavy smoke conditions. The extreme heat can also impact anyone’s health,” Grey Bruce Public Health says in a statement.
You’re being advised by Public Health to “reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors, especially if experiencing symptoms, such as coughing and throat irritation.”
The Health Unit also advises children and the elderly to avoid outdoor physical exertion.
“People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke include those aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, and people with an existing illness or chronic health condition,” Public Health says. “The poor air quality can cause people to 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. Anyone experiencing a medical emergency should seek immediate medical assistance.”