Alberta Health Services has expanded their ongoing precautionary air quality advisory for much of central and northern Alberta, they said the smoke is from wildfires burning in Northwest Territories.

Officials said smoke from forest fires continue to impact air quality in parts of the province – and they were expanding the precautionary air quality advisory they first issued July 7.

Now, that same advisory is in effect for all communities in the North, Edmonton and Central Zones.

As a result, anyone in these zones is advised to be aware of, and take precautions, against potential health concerns that can be associated with smoky air conditions.

Health officials said if you can taste and/or smell smoke in the air, you’re urged to monitor your symptoms, minimize physical activity outdoors, and consider staying indoors with windows, doors and outdoor air circulation fans or vents closed.

Anyone with respiratory conditions like COPD or asthma, and anyone with existing cardiovascular conditions such as angina, previous heart attack and congestive heart failure may notice their symptoms worsening because of the smoky air conditions. Officials said anyone with such conditions should take precautions recommended by their doctor if their symptoms get worse.

Individuals experiencing symptoms can call Health Link Alberta at 1-866-408-LINK (5465), to speak to a registered nurse.