Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for Okotoks as smoke from the B.C. wildfires continues to push into Alberta.

In the Calgary area the current Air Quality Health Index rating is sitting at a seven, or high risk.

Environment Canada encourages residents take extra precautions to protect themselves.

"Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.

Stay inside if you have breathing difficulties. Find an indoor place that's cool and ventilated. Using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help. If you open the windows you may let in more polluted air. If your home isn't air-conditioned, consider going to a public place that is air-conditioned."

The special air quality statement is in effect for many other regions in the Foothills including:

M.D. of Foothills near Cayley
M.D. of Foothills near High River and Aldersyde
M.D. of Foothills near Longview and Eden Valley Res.
M.D. of Foothills near Okotoks and De Winton
M.D. of Foothills near Priddis and Brown-Lowery Prov. Park
M.D. of Foothills near Turner Valley and Black Diamond
M.D. of Willow Creek near Claresholm and Stavely
M.D. of Willow Creek near Nanton and Parkland

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