PUBLIC ADVISED TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS FOLLOWING SMOKE WARNING

Dr. Lamont Sweet, the province's Chief Medical Officer of Health advised today that people should take precautions to avoid unnecessary exposure to smoke from Quebec forest fires, which Environment Canada predicts will reach Prince Edward Island within 24 hours.

Dr. Sweet advised that smoke from the forest fires can cause irritation to the lungs, particularly among people with asthma, bronchitis or emphysema. "Young children and the elderly with these lung conditions are particularly likely to experience worsening of these symptoms," said Dr. Sweet. "Should the smoke reach P.E.I., it is recommended that people who experience breathing difficulties from it, should stay indoors and limit outdoor exercise and activities as much as possible."

Dr. Sweet said no significant illnesses were reported when similar air pollution from forest fires passed through the area in the past.