2006-06-26
Author: Rae Hathaway
This past weekend saw 17 new forest fires break out in the southern part of the province. It's resulted in local smoke conditions in the Portage area. 

Central Regional Health Authority Medical Officer of Health Dr. Shelley Buchan notes for people with respiratory problems, smoke can act as an irritant, bringing on asthma attacks. It can also make chronic obstructed lung disease a little worse.

Buchan urges anyone with respiratory trouble to remain indoors, take proper medication, and see your physician. 

She also recommends staying informed on the smoke situation through the media.