Environment Canada’s special air quality statement ended for Red Deer and central Alberta.
The statement was initially issued Sunday morning as wildfire smoke was causing poor air quality and reduced visibility at times, due to elevated values of fine particulate matter.
“Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour,” said Environment Canada.
“Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.”
The air quality index, an initiative of Environment Canada, Health Canada, Alberta Environment and Parks, Alberta Health and Alberta Health Services, indicated there was a moderate risk throughout most of Sunday. The moderate risk continued in the early hours of Monday, but that was expected to become a low risk beginning in the early afternoon.
The statement was then ended at 9 a.m. Monday morning.
People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution, Environment Canada noted.
“They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.”
Anyone exposed to wildfire smoke is asked to consider taking extra precautions to reduce exposure. Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gases which includes many chemicals that can harm your health, said Environment Canada.
Additionally, a heat warning was issued for central Alberta air quality statement.
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