orange warning - air quality - in effect, Canada

Smoke is occasionally causing poor air quality and reduced visibility in the community of Fort Simpson.

Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.

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During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status.

Limit time outdoors. Reschedule or cancel 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.

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.

For more information on air quality and your health, please visit the Northwest Territories Department of Health and Social Services at https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/en/services/environmental-health/air-quality.

Visit https://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.