Smoke from distant forest fires may cause a reduction to air quality. Locations: Labrador City and Wabush. Time span: Today. Remarks: Smoke transported from wildfires in western Canada is drifting across the region. Although most of the smoke is aloft, smoke will settle near the ground and contribute to reduced air quality. The asssociated haze will also likely give the sun a reddish appearance. Conditions are expected to improve late this afternoon or this evening. People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms. ### As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events. You may experience mild and common 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. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance. Visit http://www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
