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Health Unit offers tips on how to stay healthy during poor air quality events

June 13, 2025   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

Wildfire smoke from fires in Northern Ontario has been drifting into the region, resulting in poor air quality.

For the first time this year, Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a special air quality statement.

Breathing in wildfire smoke can cause immediate symptoms and may also increase long-term health risks.

Some people are more at risk, including babies and young children, older adults, pregnant women, people living with chronic health conditions or existing illnesses, people who smoke, and people who work or exercise outdoors.

You can take steps to protect your health and reduce exposure to poor air quality.

Check the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) alerts to help you make informed decisions. Air quality conditions can change quickly, so check the AQHI frequently.

Monitor yourself and those around you for symptoms and health effects of air pollution and know when to seek medical attention.

You should reduce your exposure to air pollution. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor activities during poor air quality events. Protect your indoor air quality and create cleaner indoor air spaces in your home by keeping windows and doors closed during times of high air pollution.

Visit places with cleaner, cooler indoor air, like libraries and shopping malls.

Take care and listen to your body. Drink lots of water as this helps your body cope with air pollution. Stop or reduce activity levels if you are experiencing symptoms such as difficulty breathing or feeling unwell.

Poor air quality events can overlap with hot temperatures and humid air.

Extreme heat is usually more dangerous than short-term exposure to poor air quality – even wildfire smoke.

If you have to choose, prioritize staying cool. 

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