Alerts for: Berens River - Little Grand Rapids - Bloodvein - Atikaki

Statements

2:12 PM CDT Monday 26 July 2021
Special air quality statement in effect for:

• Berens River
• Bloodvein
• Little Grand Rapids and Atikaki Prov. Park

Forest fires in east-central Manitoba continue to cause poor air quality for communities near and downwind of fires. Light winds and stagnant conditions are expected for another day or two before winds increase and help disperse the smoky air. Much of eastern Manitoba will seem deterioration in air quality as smoky conditions persists.

In addition, a large forest fire north of Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan is producing smoke which is being carried downwind into western Manitoba.

Areas in the vicinity and immediately downwind of forest fires will continue to see poor air quality.

Due to the smoky conditions, individuals living in or travelling to the above noted areas are advised to be aware of potential health concerns that can be associated with current air conditions. In these current conditions, even healthy individuals may experience sore eyes, tears, coughing and a runny nose.

In areas affected by smoke from wildland fires, Manitobans are encouraged to:
- limit outdoor activity and/or strenuous physical activity; if breathing becomes difficult or uncomfortable, stop or reduce the activity
- reduce exposure to smoke by staying indoors or moving to areas with cleaner air, as conditions can vary dramatically by area
- turn off furnaces and air-conditioning units that may draw smoke indoors
- keep indoor air cleaner by avoiding smoking or burning other materials

People at higher risk include young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with heart or lung conditions (particularly asthma), and therefore should avoid as much exposure to smoke as possible.

Manitobans with health questions or concerns can contact their health-care provider or call Health Links - Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257. More information on the health effects of smoke is available at www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/environmentalhealth/smoke.html.

If you or those in your care are exposed to wildfire smoke, consider taking extra precautions to reduce your exposure. Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gasses which includes many chemicals that can harm your health. For more details, please consult www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/air-quality-health-index/wildfire-smoke.html.

Visit 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.

Issued by Environment Canada and Manitoba Health