A local health official is asking the public to be cautious as wildfire smoke continues to be present in southern Alberta, May 17, 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

AHS urges caution as air quality index to be “high” in Lethbridge

May 17, 2023 | 3:22 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Officials with Alberta Health Services (AHS) are advising the public to limit their exposure to wildfire smoke.

Smoke from dozens of wildfires in central and northern Alberta, as well as B.C., has entered southern Alberta.

Special air quality statements have been issued by Environment Canada for almost all of Alberta, as well as large portions of B.C., Saskatchewan, and southern Manitoba.

As of 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, the air quality health index for Lethbridge is rated five, or a “moderate risk.” By Wednesday evening, that is forecast to increase to a “high risk” at seven then dip back down to four by Thursday.

Dr. Vivien Suttorp, the lead Medical Officer of Health for the AHS South Zone, is asking residents to be aware of the air quality health index and to take steps to mitigate risks.

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The most effective way to do this is to limit your exposure to wildfire smoke.

“It’s hard to avoid when it’s surrounding us, but again, trying to stay indoors, making sure the windows are closed, that there’s not direct airflow from outside to inside without filtration,” said Suttorp. “In your car, for example, use the recirculation instead of continuously pulling in the smoky air.”

For anyone who works or exercises outdoors, she recommends being outside during times where smoke is less prominent. A well-fitted respirator face mask can help to reduce the amount of smoke entering your body.

Suttorp said smoke can effect people in different ways, some more severely than others. There are, however, certain groups that are at a greater risk of complications.

“Higher risk are very young individuals, so very young children, the elderly, and those with underlying heart and lung conditions. Those are the individuals who would more quickly experience the symptoms of cough, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing,” said Suttorp.

The air quality health index ratings can be viewed on the Environment Canada website, as well as weather alerts across the country.

READ MORE: Special air quality statement for much of southern Alberta due to wildfire smoke

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