By Charles Lefebvre

Special air quality statement in effect for Medicine Hat

May 30, 2019 | 5:48 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — A special air quality statement is in effect for Medicine Hat and parts of southeastern Alberta due to smoke from wildfires in northern Alberta.

The warning was issued Thursday afternoon, with smoke extending from northwestern Alberta, through Whitecourt and towards Hanna, and is heading south.

Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, shortness of breath or headaches. Children, seniors and people with cardiovascular disease or lung diseases such as asthma or COPD, are at a higher risk of developing symptoms.

If you have breathing difficulties, environment Canada is advising people stay inside, and find an indoor place that’s cool and ventilated. An air conditioner that cools and filters air can help, but if your home isn’t air-conditioned, consider going to a public place that is air-conditioned, such as a library or a mall.

Environment Canada says in central and southern parts of the province, smoke is expected to move back north by Friday morning.

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