Poor air quality and visibility caused by wildfire smoke is posing a concern in parts of northern Saskatchewan.
Environment Canada continued a special air-quality statement on Monday for La Ronge, Prince Albert National Park, Candle Lake Provincial Park and Montreal Lake, and advised people with breathing problems to limit their time outdoors.
“Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath, ” the agency said on its website. “Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.”
The fire was sparked Friday afternoon near Stanley Mission, northeast of La Ronge. It quickly grew in size due to dry, windy conditions and temporarily closed Highway 914.
Shannon McLeod described the massive plume of smoke over the community from her front step on Saturday.
“You can start seeing flames now. It’s like real close. It’s a huge fire,” she said on Facebook.
As of Sunday evening, the fire was burning three kilometres from the community, but was not a threat.
Maurice Ratt, the emergency response co-ordinator for the Lac La Ronge Indian Band, said sprinklers have been set up around the community and nearby cabins as a precaution.