By Bryan Eneas

Smoky start to work week in Prince Albert

May 14, 2018 | 2:07 PM

Smoke from nearby fires is lingering over the Gateway to the North, making things difficult for people with chronic lung conditions.

As of 7 a.m. on May 14, Parkland Ambulance had responded to 87 incidents. A release from the service stated several incidents were related to the smoke in the city.

“Paramedics remind anyone with chronic lung problems to remain indoors and limit outdoor activity,” the statement read, noting smoke can cause difficulty breathing after limited exercise, shortness of breath and watering eyes.

The statement said people with chronic lung problems may have to use more of their medication during this time.

Environment Canada’s air quality index is listed at nine, or high risk. The website recommends children and seniors “take things easy.” The general population should reduce or reschedule outdoor activities if symptoms like coughing or throat irritation present themselves.

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Here’s the air quality index for Prince Albert, as of 8 a.m. on May 14. Smoke is lingering around the city from a fire burning south of Holbein. pic.twitter.com/ebcQZ4zYlZ

— Bryan Eneas (@BryanEneas) May 14, 2018

The website’s air quality forecast states the risk should drop to low by Monday night.

Saskatchewan Wildfire Management lists 14 active fires in the province.

Nine fires are contained; three are not. There is one fire under assessment, and fire crews are protecting property at another fire.

Steve Roberts from Wildfire Management provided an update on the Holbein fire, which started on May 11 and is causing smoke to drift over Prince Albert.

“It’s estimated at about 1,500 hectares,” Roberts said, adding fire guards have been added at the Saskatchewan River. Air tankers, helicopters and bulldozers are all being used to battle the blaze.

Update on the size of the fire burning near Holbein west of Prince Albert. It is now estimated to be around 1,500 hectares. Give or take a few metres, this is the size comparison to the city. #sask #ypa pic.twitter.com/hfjJrbxlnr

— Tyler Marr (@JournoMarr) May 14, 2018

Crews are monitoring the south side of the Saskatchewan River for spot fires; Roberts said investigations as to what caused the so called “Rally” fire are under way. He ruled out lightning, and said the assumption was the fire was human caused.

“There’s currently no communities or structures at direct threat from the fire at this time,” Roberts said.

He noted the Prince Albert National Park was conducting prescribed burns, which would have caused additional smoke in Prince Albert on the morning of May 14.

There have been 142 wildifres in Saskatchewan this year, in comparison to the five year average of 81.

– With files from Nigel Maxwell

Bryan.eneas@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @BryanEneas