(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By rdnewsNOW staff

and other parts of alberta

Air quality advisory issued for Red Deer area

Aug 14, 2024 | 9:51 AM

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued an air quality advisory for the Red Deer area (and other parts of Alberta) due to wildfire smoke.

There is poor air quality and reduced visibility.

“Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour,” ECCC notes.

As of 9 a.m. on Aug. 14, Red Deer is sitting at 10+, according to the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). Projections as of 9 a.m. suggest air quality will improve drastically as the day goes on — up to a moderate rating of 4.

According to ECCC:

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22h ago

Last seen Jan. 15

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Apr 02, 2026

eyes up

Air Spray training around Red Deer Regional Airport

Apr 02, 2026

“During heavy smoke conditions, everyone is at risk regardless of their age or health. The fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main health risk.

People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke such as seniors, pregnant women and pregnant people, people who smoke, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people involved in strenuous outdoor exercise and people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors.

Listen to your body and if you experience symptoms, reduce or stop outdoor activities. 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.

Limit time outdoors. Consider rescheduling or cancelling outdoor sports, activities and events.

When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool. Always seek out and follow health guidance from local authorities.

Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air purifier that can filter fine particles.

If you must spend time outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke. Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health.

Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke.

Take care of your mental health.

Learn more at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.”

To view the latest version of this advisory, click here.

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