Just before 3 p.m., a statement was posted on Environment Canada’s website advising that smoke from the Rockies is “causing poor air quality and reduced visibility at times due to elevated values of fine particles.” He warned that people exposed to fire smoke “may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, the elderly and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are particularly at risk. “People with lung conditions, such as asthma and COPD, may be particularly sensitive to air pollution,” he added. “They will generally experience more severe health effects at lower levels. Pollution can worsen their illnesses, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.” People are advised to consider taking steps to reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke. “Fire smoke is a constantly changing mixture of particles and gases that contain many chemicals that can harm your health.” For more details, see www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/air-quality-health-index/wildfire-smoke.html. A heat warning is also in effect for the city of Calgary Saturday afternoon, with temperatures expected to reach 30 degrees.
