This Sunday, June 25 and for an indefinite period, forest fires burning mainly in northern Québec will affect air quality. The Direction de santé publique de la Montérégie recommends that the population:
- Avoid outdoor activities;
- Close windows and doors;
- Turn off air exchangers if necessary; and,
- Ensure that isolated, sick or elderly relatives avoid exposure to the outside air.
Remember that some people, such as the elderly or those with respiratory or cardiac problems, are more vulnerable to the effects of smoke.
The best way to protect yourself against the risks of forest smoke is to reduce exposure by staying indoors. However, when this is not possible, wearing an N95 mask can reduce exposure and thus health risks in the event of very poor air quality, especially for :
- Workers carrying out outdoor work;
- Vulnerable people who must be outdoors.
People concerned about their health or that of a loved one can contact the Info-Santé hotline at 811. For medical emergencies, dial 911.
It is difficult to predict how long this situation will affect the region. The smell of smoke and cloudy skies are good indicators of whether air quality is affected by forest fires.
Check the Portail Santé Montérégie regularly for the latest recommendations from the Direction de la santé publique de la Montérégie, CLICK HERE. Note that not all information is available in English.
For more information about forest fires: CLICK HERE
