Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/June 6, 2023
Environment Canada and Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks have issued a joint special air quality statement for regions within Hastings and Prince Edward counties. High levels of air pollution have developed due to smoke from forest fires, and poor air quality may persist through most of this week. Conditions may vary within our region and throughout the day.
Wildfire smoke can be harmful to your health even at low concentrations; however, everyone responds differently. Mild irritation and discomfort are common, and usually disappear when the smoke clears.
Everyone can take action to reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke. Stop or reduce your activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable or if you or someone in your care feels unwell. Drink water to help your body cope with the smoke. Keep your doors and windows closed if the temperature in your home is comfortable.
People with lung ailments, heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke. Individuals who are most vulnerable to the health effects of wildfire smoke may benefit from using air purifiers in the home, and well-fitting procedural/surgical masks, when outdoors.
Mild and common symptoms of smoke exposure include:
- sore and watery eyes
- runny nose and sinus irritation
- scratchy throat and mild coughing
- headache
Severe symptoms of smoke exposure include:
- shortness of breath
- wheezing (including asthma attacks)
- severe cough
- dizziness
- chest pains
- heart palpitations
Seek medical attention if you develop severe symptoms.
Be air aware! For your local Air Quality Health Index value, check your local weather forecasts and alerts so you know when to take extra care.
To learn more about the Air Quality Health Index value, watch What is the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)?
For the latest updates on the special air quality statement please visit the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks website.
For more information on air quality and what you should do, visit Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Air Quality Health Index website.
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Maureen Hyland, Communications Specialist
Jessica Klein, Communications Specialist
About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. HPEPH is situated and provides services on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee people. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
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