The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is urging people in the state to take precautions amid Canadian wildfire smoke reaching the state.  The agency says weather models showed an increase in fine particulates in northern Illinois and that this would move southward throughout the day.  This is set to linger into Saturday before another round comes in on Sunday.  Air Quality Index (AQI) readings may indicate orange, meaning “unsafe for sensitive groups.”

Particle pollution of this nature can cause serious health problems such as asthma attacks, heart attacks, stroke, and even death.  Children, adults who are active outdoors, and those with respiratory and pulmonary disorders are at a greater risk of these outcomes.  Symptoms of these issues include wheezing, coughing, a fast heartbeat, tiredness, chest pain, and shortness of breath. 

The Illinois Department of Public Health encourages people to stay indoors whenever possible and set air conditioning systems to recirculate or close fresh air intake.  For those who must go outside, wear a high-quality N-95 or N-100 mask, take more frequent breaks, and reduce the length and intensity of activities. 

Current and forecasted air quality readings are available at www.AirNow.gov.