Public Advisory – Monitoring Air Quality

Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement due to smoke from ongoing wildfires. Smoke is causing — or expected to cause — poor air quality and reduced visibility, with conditions that may persist over the coming days.

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) in nearby Sault Ste. Marie has reached a high-risk level of 10, and while this reading is location-specific, similar conditions may affect surrounding areas, including Huron Shores.

🔍 How to Monitor Air Quality:

• Air Quality Health Index (AQHI): Real-time air quality readings are available from the monitoring station in Sault Ste. Marie. Please note this data is specific to SSM and may not reflect conditions in other parts of Algoma.
  👉 Visit: www.airqualityontario.com/aqhi/
• UNBC Purple Air Map: For communities outside Sault Ste. Marie, the UNBC Air Quality Map offers localized data. Click on the dot nearest to your area to view current health risk levels and guidance.
• Public Alert Services:
  • WeatherCAN App – Offers general weather and air quality alerts
  • Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Air Quality Alert Email Notifications – Residents can subscribe to stay updated

🧑‍⚕️ Protecting Your Health:

• Avoid or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities, especially if you experience coughing, throat irritation, or difficulty breathing
• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed
• Use a HEPA air purifier if available
• Wear a properly fitted N95 mask if you must be outdoors for extended periods
• Ensure indoor air is clean by keeping ventilation on recirculate where possible

📢 Stay Informed:

For further details on this developing situation, read the full article on SooToday – Wildfire smoke prompts Special Air Quality Statement – SooToday

More information on indoor air quality, wildfire smoke, and protective measures is available at:

👉 Health Canada – Wildfire Smoke Factsheets

• Wildfire smoke 101: How to prepare for wildfire smoke
• Wildfire smoke 101: Combined wildfire smoke and heat
• Wildfire smoke 101: Wildfire smoke and your health
• Wildfire smoke 101: Using an air purifier to filter wildfire smoke

👉 Government of Canada

• Guidance for Cleaner Air Spaces During Wildfire Smoke Event
• Choosing a Portable Air Purifier
• Protecting Your Indoor Air – Infographic
• Preparing for Wildfire Smoke Event