Precautionary fire smoke advisory issued for South Zone (South Zone)
January 4, 2012
LETHBRIDGE – Due to several grass fires burning around southern Alberta, Alberta Health Services is issuing a precautionary fire smoke advisory for South Zone.
Although minor smoke conditions do not typically cause health concerns in most healthy individuals, if smoke conditions become more severe, even healthy individuals may experience irritation of eyes, throat and possibly shortness of breath. All residents and visitors to the area are advised to monitor their own health, and adapt their activities as necessary.
If you can taste and/or smell smoke in the air:
- Be aware of your symptoms.
- Reduce levels of physical activity as necessary.
- Consider sheltering indoors with windows closed.
- Watch for updates from local county and/or media
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 be more likely to notice a worsening of their symptoms. Individuals with existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions are advised to take the precautions and steps they normally do when experiencing worsening of symptoms.
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.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than 3.7 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.
