A special air quality statement is in effect for Dauphin and much of the Parkland, including the Municipality of Ethelbert.
Several wildfires are burning northeast of Ethelbert and in Lake St Martin area causing localized areas of smoke, reducing visibilities and causing poor air quality downwind of fires.
Due to the locally smoky conditions that we can expect, individuals living in or travelling to the above-noted areas are advised to be aware of potential health concerns that can be associated with current local air conditions. In these current conditions, and even in less affected areas, some individuals may experience sore eyes, tears, coughing and a runny nose.
In areas affected by smoke from wildland fires, you're encouraged to take the following precautions:
- limit outdoor activity and/or strenuous physical activity; if breathing becomes difficult or uncomfortable, stop or reduce the activity;
- reduce exposure to smoke by staying indoors or moving to areas with cleaner air, as conditions can vary dramatically by area;
- turn off furnaces and air-conditioning units that may draw smoke indoors; and
- keep indoor air cleaner by avoiding smoking or burning other materials
People at higher risk include older adults, infants and young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions, such as breathing difficulties or heart problems.
