Smoke from wildfires is expected to cause locally poor air quality and reduced visibility. While conditions have improved somewhat, smoke is expected to return later today and may remain through the weekend. In the Fort Liard area, new fires in the region will create locally smoky conditions. Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour. ### As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events. You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance. People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms. Issued jointly by Environment Canada and the Northwest Territories Departments of Environment and Natural Resources and Health and Social Services. For more information on air quality and your health, please visit the Northwest Territories Department of Health and Social Services at https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/en/services/environmental-health/air-quality. Visit http://www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
