Due to the pervasive wildfire smoke from B.C. Environment Canada issued a special air quality statement for the foothills.

Statements

5:49 AM MDT Monday 05 September 2022
Special air quality statement in effect for:

  • Foothills Co. near Cayley
  • Foothills Co. near High River and Aldersyde
  • Foothills Co. near Longview and Eden Valley Res.
  • Foothills Co. near Okotoks and De Winton
  • Foothills Co. near Priddis and Brown-Lowery Prov. Park
  • Foothills Co. near Turner Valley and Black Diamond
  • M.D. of Willow Creek near Claresholm and Stavely
  • M.D. of Willow Creek near Nanton and Parkland
  • Rocky View Co. near Bragg Creek and Tsuu T'ina Res.

Wildfire smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility due to elevated values of fine particulate matter.

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

Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.

If you or those in your care are exposed to wildfire smoke, consider taking extra precautions to reduce your exposure. Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gases which includes many chemicals that can harm your health. For more details, please consult www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/air-quality-health-index/wildfire-smoke.html.

For more information please visit Alberta Health Services at www.albertahealthservices.ca/news/air.aspx.

Visit 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.