By James Wood

Air quality advisory issued due to Waterton Lakes fire

Sep 6, 2017 | 7:34 AM

WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK, ALTA- Air quality in the southwest corner of Alberta is expected to be poor today.

According to an advisory issued by Environment Canada, a fire in Waterton Lakes National Park is causing poor air quality in southwestern Alberta. The threat of the flames already forced an evacuation of the park earlier in the week.

While conditions are expected to improve in Lethbridge later on today, the air quality in the foothills is expected to remain poor for the coming days.

“Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath,” read the advisory.

“Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk. If your home is not air-conditioned, be sure the house doesn’t get too warm when doors and windows are closed to keep out smoke. Exposure to too much heat can also result in illness.”

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The advisory indicated that people with breathing problems should stay inside.

“Find an indoor place that’s cool and ventilated,” read the advisory.

“Using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help. If you open the windows you may let in more polluted air. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, consider going to a public place (library, shopping mall, recreation centre) that is air-conditioned.”

The following areas are included in the advisory;

City of Lethbridge

Co. of Forty Mile near Skiff

Co. of Lethbridge near Coaldale

Co. of Lethbridge near Coalhurst Nobleford and Barons

Co. of Lethbridge near Picture Butte and Turin

Co. of Warner near Milk River and Coutts

Co. of Warner near Raymond Stirling and New Dayton

Co. of Warner near Warner

Co. of Warner near Wrentham

Co. of Warner near Writing-On-Stone Prov. Park

M.D. of Taber near Grassy Lake and Hwys 877 and 513

M.D. of Taber near Taber and Barnwell

M.D. of Taber near Vauxhall and Hays