People in Renfrew who need a break from all the forest fire smoke wafting through now have the chance.
Mayor Tom Sidney tells myFM that shelters offering clean and cool air are now available at three public facilities, noting that taking advantage of them is as simple as dropping by during open hours.
The creation of the clean air shelters follows a recent recommendation from Fire Chief Mike Guest that area residents limit exposure to the smoke, which can be especially harmful to people who spend a lot of time outdoors, people with heart or lung disease, older residents, pregnant women, and children.
In a statement, Chief Guest says that “the safety and wellbeing of the community is our top priority, and these shelters will be available to anyone who needs a safe place to breathe clean air.”
Residents who are having trouble getting away from the wildfire smoke are invited to visit a clean air shelter at the following locations:
- The Renfrew Public Library at 13 Railway Avenue – Monday-Wednesday-Friday from 9:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- The Renfrew Recreation Centre at 67 Argyle Street South – Daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- The Ma-te-Way Activity Centre at 1 Ma-te-Way Park Drive – Daily from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00p.m.
A forest fire along Centennial Lake in Greater Madawaska is currently being fought by fire crews from across the region and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. It’s just one of a few sending smoke into the Renfrew area at the moment.
Mayor Sidney explains that Renfrew’s firefighters have not been called in to assist yet but are ready to join the effort should the neighbouring township ask.
(written by Kasey Egan)
