Point Edward, ON – Environment Canada and Climate Change issued a Special Air Quality Statement (SAQS), and a Smog and Air Health Advisory (SAHA) for Lambton County and surrounding areas this afternoon and evening.
Lambton Public Health is encouraging residents to take the proper precautions to protect their health on days when air quality is poor.
A Special Air Quality Statement is issued if a high-risk Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) value is forecast to last for a duration of one to two hours. The purpose of a SAQS is to be precautionary and vigilant of your health as it relates to the AQHI. If a high-risk AQHI value is forecast to persist for a duration of three or more hours, a SAHA will also be issued.
“Some individuals may experience eye irritation and breathing difficulty today,” said Lori Lucas, Supervisor of Health Protection for Lambton Public Health. “Heavy outdoor activity should be avoided, especially for those with heart or lung conditions, including asthma, because it could worsen symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath.”
Lambton Public Health recommends the following actions to help you spare the air and reduce your exposure:
- Reduce car use. Avoid unnecessary vehicle idling. Refuel your car after sundown.
- Limit use of small engine tools such as lawn mowers, chain saws and leaf blowers. Avoid the use of aerosol sprays and cleaners, paints and other products.
- Avoid strenuous exercise in the heat. Children, the elderly and people with chronic heart or lung conditions should try to remain indoors in the late afternoon when the UV index is most intense.
- Take extra precautions if you live or work in close proximity to Highway 402 and trucks are delayed at the Bluewater Bridge. Smog levels are affected by traffic congestion and the prevailing wind direction.
- Park your car versus idling in drive-thru locations.
For more information on smog advisories, or to subscribe to notifications affecting Sarnia-Lambton visit www.airqualityontario.com or call 1-800-387-7768.
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Please contact:
LPH-media-inquiries@county-lambton.on.ca