Moose Jaw residents may have woken up to orange haze covering the skies on Monday. This is due to wildfire smoke from Alberta and the northwestern US that has moved into the region, causing poor air quality and reduced visibility at times.

As a result, Environment Canada issued a Special Air Quality Statement on Monday for Moose Jaw, Craik, Central Butter, and Pense. 

Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.

Environment Canada wanted to remind people of the health risks that accompany wildfire smoke.

"Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches, or shortness of breath," says Environment Canada in an advisory on Monday. "Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk."

People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.

If you or those in your care are exposed to wildfire smoke, consider taking extra precautions to reduce your exposure. Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gases which includes many chemicals that can harm your health. For more details, please consult www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/air-quality-health-index/wildfire-smoke.html.

Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.