Hub Staff
As many of noticed smoke from active forest fires has at times impacted local air quality and Grey Bruce Public Health (GBPH) is advising residents and visitors to take precautions to protect their health when this occurs.
A statement from Environment and Climate Change Canada issued on Thursday, July 31, 2025, said that the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for the region was forecasted to reach "High Risk" during the day before it was expected return to "Low Risk" on Friday, August 1, 2025.
Residents are encouraged to regularly check the AQHI for their area (shown here, measured locally at the Tiverton station). When the AQHI reaches High Risk, GBPH recommends anyone with heart or breathing problems to reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities. Children and the elderly should also reduce their activity. For everyone else, reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities is recommended if experiencing coughing or throat irritation.
Senior Public Health Manager Andrew Barton encourages residents to monitor weather alerts and forecasts related to the current air quality and take steps to protect their health and the health of their loved ones.
"Wildfire smoke can create high levels of pollution in the air, which can adversely affect everyone’s health, even at low concentrations," read a recent media release from GBPH.
Individuals aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, anyone with existing illnesses or chronic health conditions, and those who work outdoors are all more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution.
In addition to these precautions, residents and visitors can also limit their exposure to wildfire smoke by keeping windows and doors closed when possible, using recirculation settings on HVAC systems, installing high quality air filters in ventilation systems, if able using air purifiers, and seeking refuge in community centres, libraries and shopping malls.
"Mild irritation and discomfort caused by wildfire smoke are common and typically subside as the smoke dissipates," the release said. "Drinking plenty of water can help the body cope with these temporary changes."
