***PRESS RELEASE FROM ALBERTA HEALTH SERVICES***
COLD LAKE – Due to smoke from wildfires burning near Cold Lake, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is issuing an air quality advisory for the Town of Cold Lake and surrounding area.
Individuals living or travelling in the above noted area are advised to be aware of potential health concerns that can be associated with current air conditions.
In the current conditions, even healthy individuals may experience temporary irritation of eyes and throat, and possibly shortness of breath.
To reduce exposure to the current air conditions, all individuals can:
- Minimize physical activity outdoors.
- Remain indoors with windows, doors and air circulation fans/vents closed.
- If you must drive to another location, keep windows and vents closed. Run your car fan on re-circulate mode to avoid drawing in outdoor air.
- Do not smoke tobacco – smoking puts added stress on your lungs and those around you.
Individuals with respiratory conditions (such as COPD and asthma), and individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions (such as angina, previous heart attack and congestive heart failure), may notice a worsening of symptoms, due to the current air conditions. These individuals should monitor for worsening of symptoms and take the precautions routinely recommended by their physicians if a worsening of symptoms occurs.
Individuals experiencing symptoms can also call Health Link Alberta 24 hours a day, seven days a week, toll-free at 1.866.408.LINK (5465), to speak to a registered nurse.
Air quality can vary with weather conditions and prevailing winds. Because air quality is expected to be variable, this advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Information about the air quality in many areas of Alberta is updated hourly on the Alberta Environment Air Quality Website: http://airquality.alberta.ca. Air quality information is also available by phone, toll-free, at 1-877-247-7333.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than 4 million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.