Wildfire smoke triggers special air quality statement for Calgary ...

A special air quality statement has been issued for Calgary as wildfire smoke impacted visibility in the city on Thursday morning.

Air quality was deemed a moderate risk as of 9 a.m. according to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), with the Air Quality Health Index at five. 

Much of Thursday is expected to carry an index rating of eight or a high risk. The poor air quality is expected to continue into the early hours of Friday before dropping back down to six or moderate risk. 

The special air quality statement was issued just before 2:30 a.m. Thursday.

Poor air quality and reduced visibility from wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances from hour to hour, ECCC says.

Everyone is encouraged to limit their time outside and keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.

The weather agency also recommends wearing a mask when outdoors and using an air filter or an air purifier in the home as long as it is capable of filtering out the fine particles found in wildfire smoke.

People who are sensitive to the smoke including seniors, pregnant people and infants and young children and those with  existing illness or chronic health conditions are encouraged to avoid any strenuous activities outdoors until it clears up.

"Listen to your body," the special air quality statement reads.

"Symptoms can include milder and more common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, as well as serious but less common symptoms such as chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance."