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Residents Urged to Take Precautions During Smog Advisory

Waterloo - The Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Liana Nolan, advises Region of Waterloo residents to take steps to prevent illness during the smog event. A smog advisory has been issued jointly by Environment Canada and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment. Higher air pollution levels are expected to accumulate and react with sunlight to form smog throughout the next couple of days.

All residents, and particularly those at the greatest risk of breathing difficulties (e.g., older adults; infants and young children; people with chronic illnesses; people who work or exercise in the heat; and people who are homeless and/or live alone) are urged to take the following actions:

  • Stay indoors in a cool, air-conditioned environment if possible
  • Avoid or reduce strenuous physical outdoor activities, especially during the late afternoon - reschedule or relocate activities to an indoor, air conditioned area if possible
  • Avoid or reduce exercising near areas of heavy traffic, especially during rush hour
  • Reduce activity level if you begin to cough, wheeze, feel chest tightness and/or have trouble breathing
  • Frequently visit neighbours, friends, and older family members, especially those who are chronically ill or live alone

More tips on what to do during a smog advisory are available on Region of Waterloo Public Health’s website http://bit.ly/MBJsqm or by calling 519-883-2008.

 

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MEDIA CONTACT: Lu-Ann Procter, Coordinator, Marketing & Communications, 519-883-2000 ext. 2244