**** Info via Environment Canada
Wildfires: it can affect all of us
Forest fire season is here, and as we see every year, hot, dry weather contributes to the spread of wildfires. Several fires are currently burning in the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, the western provinces and Newfoundland.
Map of active fires in Canada on August 14th, 2022. Source: Natural Resources Canada.
If you see a fire approaching your home or community, report it immediately by dialling 9-1-1 or your local emergency number. You can also report a fire by calling your local Wildfire Service report line. Public Safety Canada recommends taking the following action to prepare for a wildfire.
Even you live far away from current wildfires, travelling smoke can affect the air quality of your region and impact your health, even if you can’t see or smell it. The best way to protect your health is to reduce your exposure to wildfire smoke.
Downtown Calgary, Alberta, city skyline under smoke from forest fires.
To help you with this, we just added a new air quality feature to our app. You can now access air quality information directly from the NOW page, and you can set personalized notifications for when the Air Quality Health Index forecast reaches your chosen threshold in your selected locations.
If wildfires smoke affects the air quality of your region, limit outdoor activity and strenuous physical activities. If you have difficulty breathing, stop altogether. Keep windows and doors closed as long as the temperature is comfortable. Use recirculation settings on your HVAC system to prevent smoke from entering your home. Drink plenty of water to help your body cope with the smoke.
For more information, visit Wildfire smoke, air quality and your health.
