Precautionary fire smoke advisory issued for Calgary area
February 8, 2012
CALGARY – Due to a fire burning on the Tsuu T’ina reserve, Alberta Health Services is issuing a precautionary fire smoke advisory for the Calgary area.
Smoke conditions can vary with weather conditions and prevailing winds. As such, this advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
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.
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. These individuals are advised to take the precaution their physicians have previously recommended when experiencing worsening of symptoms.
Individuals experiencing symptoms can also call Health Link Alberta 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 403.943.LINK (5465).
Current air quality and the Air Quality Index (AQI) can be accessed at Alberta Environment's website at www.environment.alberta.ca/index.html, click on Air Quality Health Index (in Quick Links) or by calling 1-877-247-7333.
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.
-30-
