Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department issues air quality advisory amid Canadian wildfires

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department issued an air quality advisory Friday.

According to the health department, the smoke from wildfires in central and western Canada has the potential to impact Lancaster County throughout the weekend.

Smoke from these fires may reach levels that are unhealthy for children, older adults and those with underlying conditions.

“The severity of air quality is difficult to predict, but smoke in Lancaster County may reach levels that are unhealthy for everyone,” said Gary Bergstrom, the Air Quality Section supervisor with the health department. “The highest potential for smoke impacts is expected Saturday evening through noon on Sunday.” 

People at risk should watch for symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heartbeat or chest pain.

Those who experience these symptoms should contact a medical care provider.

When the Air Quality Index reaches the orange category, that means the air quality is unhealthy for people with higher sensitivity to air pollution.

Those at risk can further protect their health when air quality is poor by staying indoors, keeping windows and doors closed, using an air filter, and using the recirculate setting on your vehicle’s air conditioner.

Check the Environmental Protection Agency fire and smoke map at fire.airnow.gov for up-to-date air quality and helpful tips.