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Local physician advises precautions against wildfire smoke

May 18, 2018 | 12:00 PM

With the recent spate of wildfires across the province, a local physician is warning Battlefords area residents to be extra vigilant over the next few weeks as air quality continues to deteriorate.

Dr. Mandiangu Nsungu, a medical health officer in North Battleford with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, said those with lung or heart conditions, young children, and seniors are particularly at risk, but everyone should be taking precautions.

“Even healthy people are at risk at this time,” Nsungu said. “I encourage everyone to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if you get worse, particularly if you have a pre-existing respiratory condition.”

So far this year 159 wildfires have been recorded in the province with six still considered active by Wildfire Management, including fires in the Holbein, Crutwell, and Waterhen Lake First Nation areas. The five-year average for wildfires in Saskatchewan is just 98.

With sunshine and temperatures in the mid-twenties expected over the Victoria Day holiday weekend, Nsungu said people should be wary about spending long periods outside.

“When the temperatures are nice, like they are going to be, then everyone will be tempted to be outside even if the air quality is not good,” the doctor warned. ”People should minimize the amount of time or what times they are outside especially if they are in the high-risk category.”

Nsungu said during this critical period people should also limit or avoid strenuous outdoor activity.

“This is advised because when you do activity like this you put extra stress and demand on your lung function,” he said.

Should you experience any medical symptoms such as coughing, eyes and throat irritation and shortness of breath, Nsungu said to seek medical attention. Residents can check current air quality conditions online.

 

roger.white@jpbg.ca

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