(File photo/northeastNOW Staff)

By Cam Lee

Smoke causing issues

Health concerns stemming from wildfire smoke

Jul 22, 2025 | 3:47 PM

Wildfire smoke will lead to reduced air quality across Saskatchewan over the next couple of days.

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Air Quality Health Index value forecast in areas like Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Regina, and Buffalo Narrows is high to very high tonight into tomorrow.

People with lung issues or are otherwise listed as at-risk are advised to avoid any strenuous activities outdoors, while the general population is recommended to reduce those types of activities.

Jaimie Peters of Lung Saskatchewan, a registered nurse and certified respiratory educator, told northeastNOW the wildfire smoke has caused health issues with many people over the past few years.

“Smoke can affect everyone’s health and breathing,” Peters said. “That may include irritated eyes, runny nose, headaches or worsening of allergies.”

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Others may struggle to breathe in these conditions and have shortness of breath, especially if they have a lung disease like asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Avoiding the smoke altogether is the best strategy for many people. Peters said staying inside and keeping doors and windows closed is one way to do that, especially for people with pre-existing health issues.

“It is really helpful if you are staying inside to use an air conditioner, especially if you have an air exchange, or you can put on re-circulation, so the outside air doesn’t come in,” explained Peters. The air in your home can be further improved by using an air purifier with a HEPA air filter. Meanwhile, air conditioning can be put on re-circulation mode inside your vehicle as well to stop the outside air from entering.

When conditions are very poor, Peters recommends avoiding any strenuous outdoor exercise if possible. During those days, it’s suggested that any exercise should be done indoors. The Saskatchewan Roughrider game in Regina July 11 was postponed until the next day due to the smoky conditions and their potential effects on players.

The extremely smoky conditions can be especially hard on children’s lungs. Children breathe faster and their lungs are smaller, and Peters said their exposure to smoke should be reduced.

Anyone that needs to be outside during these times can also use a mask, specifically a properly fitted N95 mask. Peters said they could also be used by anyone having to work outdoors while the smoke continues to cause air quality issues.

Peters said the smoke is difficult as it can cause acute flare-ups for people with illnesses.

“We do see more visits to urgent care and to emergency rooms, so we want people to have their illnesses under control, their chronic diseases under control before forest fire season happens,” Peters said. “We know if you’re in better control, you’re going to better manage the trigger from that smoke.”

Anyone with questions about the conditions or the effects the smoke could have on their lungs can contact registered nurses with the Lung Society at 1-833-385-5864. Those struggling to breathe, rapidly breathing, or with chest pain should go to the ER or urgent care.

You can also listen to the Let’s Talk Lungs ‘I smell smoke’ podcast or read more about how to deal with wildfire smoke.

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Cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com