Environment Canada issued an air quality warning for Kingston on Saturday due to spreading wildfire smoke, but the warning has been lifted. The organization issued a yellow-level air quality warning for the area shortly after 12:30 p.m., noting that smoke from northwestern Ontario is causing poor quality and reduced visibility in the region. At 2 p.m., the air quality index was at a 9, which is the second-worst air quality in the province, behind only Thunder Bay. An air quality measurement between 7 and 10 is considered high risk. “Air quality and visibility due to wildfires smoke can change rapidly over short distances and from hour to hour,” Environment Canada’s alert reads. “As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.” Environment Canada says exposure to wildfire smoke may cause mild symptoms like eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. Severe symptoms include wheezing, chest paints or severe cough. Those experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical attention. Those most likely to be affected by wildfire smoke included people 65 or older, pregnant people, infants, young children and people with existing illnesses or chronic health conditions. Those who work outdoors should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities. Environment Canada recommends keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible, using an air filtration or ventilation system and wearing a mask when outdoors. Environment Canada says a “major” air quality improvement is expected on Sunday.
