Saskatchewan’s outdoor air quality is generally good. However, it can be affected at times by environmental conditions such as forest fire smoke, industrial emissions, dust and other airborne pollutants. These adverse conditions may impact health, particularly for individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions. It’s important to stay informed and take protective measures when air quality is poor.
Forest fire smoke can affect your health. Persons with respiratory or heart conditions, such as asthma, can experience worsened symptoms during minor and severe smoke events. During severe smoke events even healthy individuals can be affected and may experience irritation of the eyes, throat and possibly shortness of breath.
Everyone – and in particular those with pre‐existing respiratory or heart conditions – should monitor their symptoms and seek medical care if symptoms worsen.
Don't rely on dust masks, bandanas or cloths (even if wet), since they are designed to trap large particles and not designed to protect lungs from smoke. Well-fitted respirators (e.g. N95) offer the most effective protection from fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
View Current Air Quality Conditions
Provincial Summary of Current Air Quality Health Index Values