Public Service Announcement: Lincoln residents urged to exercise caution due to poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke

Air Quality Alert
Type(s)
Public Service Announcement

June 8, 2023 – (Lincoln, ON) – Wildfire smoke is impacting local air quality in Lincoln and throughout Niagara. Niagara Region Public Health reported that the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) was at 7 (high risk) as of June 7, and will last into the weekend.

According to Health Canada guidance, at risk populations such as children should reschedule outdoor physical activity when AQHI levels reach 7 or higher. Everyone is at risk from wildfire smoke, most especially small children, pregnant people, seniors, people with lung or heart conditions and people involved in outdoor work or strenuous exercise.

Actions to Take in Lincoln:

Residents are advised to regularly monitor the Air Quality Health Index and following these tips to help reduce negative health impacts:

  • Be mindful of any symptoms you may experience such as irritated eyes, mucus production, shortness of breath or cough. People respond differently to smoke. Mild irritation and discomfort are common, and usually disappear when the smoke clears.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Stop or reduce your activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable or you or someone in your care feel unwell. Contact your health care provider or local health authority if you develop severe symptoms or need advice. 
  • Keep doors and windows closed if the temperature in your home is comfortable. 
  • Use an HVAC system at home to filter incoming air when possible. Use the highest rated MERV filter for your system (ideally rated 13 or higher) and set the fan to recirculate air constantly. You can also use a portable High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) air cleaner.
  • Check on people in your care and those around you who may be more susceptible to smoke. 
  • People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults (≥65 years of age), children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke. Speak with your health care provider about developing a management plan for wildfire smoke events and maintaining a supply of necessary medications at home and always carrying these medications with you during wildfire season.
  • Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values. 
  • If you must spend time outdoors, a well-fitted respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH certified N95 or equivalent respirator) that does not allow air to pass through small openings between the mask and face, can help reduce your exposure to the fine particles in smoke. These fine particles generally pose the greatest risk to health. However, respirators do not reduce exposure to the gases in wildfire smoke. It is important to listen to your body and reduce or stop activities if you are experiencing symptoms. 
  • Reduce sources of indoor air pollution. If you can, avoid smoking or vaping indoors, burning incense and candles, frying foods, using wood stoves and vacuuming. Dust on indoor surfaces can be removed by wiping and wet mopping during a pollution episode.

Supports for Vulnerable Populations

Poor air quality and smoky conditions are concerning, especially for vulnerable populations. If you see a vulnerable person in need, call 211. The #Niagara Assertive Street Outreach team is ready to offer support. Learn more at Niagara Region’s website.

For More Information 

Health Canada offers the following resources on wildfire smoke and air quality: