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Special Air Quality Statement

Published

Peterborough, ON (June 7, 2023) – The safety of students and staff is the top priority for Fleming College.

Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality statement for the Peterborough Region as smoke plumes from forest fires in Quebec and northeastern Ontario has resulted in deteriorated air quality.

Current Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) values for the Peterborough Region are currently high risk. For the general population, the Government of Canada is suggesting considering reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation. For the at-risk population, consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if you are experiencing symptoms. Find out if you are at risk. If you have health related questions, please contact your healthcare provider.

Students studying outside, in programs such as Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training, Arboriculture and Urban Forestry should consider wearing a mask, such as an KN95, for added protection. Masks are available upon request through facilities@flemingcollege.ca .

Fleming College will continue to work with our local public health partners to monitor the air quality and introduce additional safety measures if required. Portable air purifiers are deployed in specific areas to help enhance ventilation of indoor spaces if needed.

Please review more Environment Canada tips on how you can protect yourself from wildfire smoke:

• For relief, go to places in the community with clean, cool air.
• Reduce or stop activities if you experience symptoms.
• Check on vulnerable loved ones and people around you who may be more susceptible to smoke.
• Reduce sources of indoor air pollution. If you can, avoid smoking or vaping indoors, frying foods, burning incense or candles, vacuuming, and using wood stoves. Dust on indoor surfaces can be removed by wiping and wet mopping.