UPDATE: Environment Canada has extended the smoke advisory to include the City of Grande Prairie and some municipalities in the county.
An air quality advisory has been issued for several communities in the Peace Country due to wildfire smoke.
Residents living in the areas of Grande Prairie, Beaverlodge, Valleyview, Peace River, Fairview, High Prairie, and Manning are advised that wildfire smoke is expected to cause very poor air quality and reduced visibility.
According to Environment Canada, during the smokey conditions, everyone is at risk of adverse health effects associated with smoke inhalation. Seniors, pregnant women, smokers, infants, children, people working outdoors, and those with an existing illness are more likely to be impacted by the smoke and are encouraged to stay indoors during this time.
When indoors, Environment Canada recommends keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible. Additionally, property owners are encouraged to consider installing a good quality air filter in ventilation systems and everyone is urged to use a certified portable air purifier that can filter fine particles.
Residents are asked to be mindful of symptoms of smoke inhalation such as eye and throat irritation, and anyone who suspects they might be having a medical emergency is urged to seek immediate medical assistance.
