The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) said as wildfire smoke drifts into the region, it’s necessary to take precautions and reduce exposure to poor air quality.
Officials said breathing in wildfire smoke can cause immediate symptoms and may also increase long-term health risks.
According to officials, some individuals who face higher risks include infants and young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, those with chronic health conditions or existing illnesses, smokers, and people who work or exercise outdoors.
They advise staying aware and watching for symptoms and health effects of air pollution, reducing or rescheduling outdoor activities during poor air quality events and drinking lots of water, as this helps the body cope with air pollution.
“Poor air quality events can overlap with hot temperatures and humid air,” said officials, adding that extreme heat is usually more dangerous than short-term exposure to poor air quality, even wildfire smoke.
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