Wildfire smoke covers Pinnacle Hill in Renfrew on June 5th, 2025
While the Ottawa Valley is currently safe from wildfires, the area will feel the effects of ongoing issues to the west.
A special air quality statement is in effect as wildfire smoke from Manitoba and Northern Ontario is expected to pass over local communities starting Thursday afternoon, with the potential for ground-level smoke to continue this evening and into Friday.
Environment Canada advises that health risks increase as smoke levels rise, suggesting that residents limit time outdoors and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor activities and events. If you must spend time outdoors, a well-fitting and properly worn respirator-type mask can reduce exposure to the fine particles in the smoke.
Common symptoms of smoke inhalation range from mild issues like eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and a mild cough, up to wheezing, chest pain, and severe cough.
People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
(written by Kasey Egan)