Fires Update, Wednesday, Aug. 10, Noon

Following is a provincial fire update for Wednesday, Aug. 10, at noon.

• there have been no significant changes on the wildfires since the 9 a.m. update
• crews continue to work on the fires and resources are being sent to where they are most needed
• winds have begun to pick up, which will make conditions more challenging for crews and firefighters
• the crew from New Brunswick is expected to arrive in McGowan Lake in early afternoon
• smoke from the fires has been moving across the province, reaching Halifax
• smoke from the Seven Mile Lake wildfire has affected air quality in Annapolis, Kings, Lunenburg and Queens Counties, which can put young children, the elderly, people with allergies, heart or lung conditions at risk
• non-coastal areas of mainland Nova Scotia are also expecting high humidity of between 35 and 39 degrees Celsius tomorrow, and this may also cause health problems for people who are vulnerable
• young children, the elderly, people with allergies, heart or lung conditions are most at risk. Symptoms include irritated eyes, increased mucus production in the nose or throat, coughing, or difficulty breathing, especially during exercise
• if you are sensitive to air quality or humidity, you may want to stay indoors, or somewhere that is cool. Spend time in an air-conditioned place – such as a library, indoor sports facility, mall or other public place
• if you have an air conditioner at home, set it to "re-circulate" and keep it running
• keep your doors and windows closed to avoid letting in polluted air, and avoid strenuous indoor activities as well as outdoor ones.
• if you have health concerns, contact 811 or your health-care provider.

A medical officer of health is available for interviews regarding air quality. To arrange, please contact the Department of Health and Wellness media contact below.