Stemming from the forest fires in Ontario and Quebec, Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement. The statement was issued June 5.
On top of poor air quality, they say visibility because of the smoke can vary over short distances.
Environment Canada says people with lung disease (like asthma), heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people working outside are at a higher risk of experiencing health problems because of wildfire smoke.
They suggest taking a break if breathing becomes difficult. If symptoms continue to get worse, they say to call a doctor.
However, Environment Canada notes that mild irritation and discomfort and normal and usually go away once the smoke clears. They suggest drinking lots of water.
If inside, they say to avoid smoking or vaping, burning incense and candles, frying foods, using wood stoves, and vacuuming. They recommend removing dust by wiping and using a wet mop.
Meanwhile, two fires, measuring 2.1 and 18 hectares in size respectively, are considered not under control at Algonquin Park.
The fires are reported on the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry’s forest fire info map as starting on June 3.
As of Monday morning, there are 40 active forest fires in Ontario.
Most areas of Ontario, including Muskoka and Algonquin Park, are under a total fire ban.