Canada's top doctor is warning us to be on alert to protect our health as scores of wildfires burning across the country will lead to more bad air quality days this summer.
Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam says the smoke from the fires contains microscopic particles that pose significant risk to both humans and animals.
1/2 Tips to help protect your health from wildfire smoke.
— Dr. Theresa Tam (@CPHO_Canada) June 19, 2023
If air quality is poor:
· Limit outdoor activity
· Drink lots of water
· Keep windows and doors closed (home & vehicle)
· Find a cool space away from smoke, with clean air
The particles can cause asthma attacks, compound breathing problems for people with C-O-P-D, and potentially lead to bronchitis and pneumonia.
Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos estimates 25-hundred people died in Canada due to exposure to wildfire smoke between 2013 and '18.
The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre reports 421 active fires nationwide this morning, with 203 burning out of control.
