Environment Canada is advising residents of Airdrie and Rocky View County's western and northwestern communities to be "air aware" as hot and sunny conditions persist for the remainder of the week.
An air quality statement was issued on June 29 by Environment Canada, Alberta Environment and Parks, Alberta Health and Alberta Health Services, warning residents of Airdrie, Crossfield, Bottrel, Madden and Cochrane to monitor their exposure to outside air over the coming days.
The statement advised that stagnant weather conditions have built under a ridge of high pressure, causing pollutants at the surface to build up over time. As a result, air quality is expected to be at its worst in the evenings.
Those who are exposed to the polluted air may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches, or shortness of breath, according to the statement. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.
Environment Canada advised that those with lung disease are especially sensitive to air pollution and may experience more serious health effects. The pollution can aggravate their existing conditions, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.
In addition, active people who choose to exercise or work outdoors are also at an increased risk of ill effects from air pollution, according to the statement.
"Be air aware and know the best times to be active outdoors by using the AQHI (Air Quality Health Index) to plan your day," the statement read.
If you or a loved one are exposed to wildfire smoke, Environment Canada is recommending to take extra precautions to reduce your exposure.
"Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gasses which includes many chemicals that can harm your health," the statement said.
For more information regarding wildfire smoke, visit bit.ly/3qxYcQJ, or for information regarding air quality and pollution levels visit albertahealthservices.ca/news/air.aspx
