Forest fires burning in B.C. and Alberta have been a factor in reduced air quality in recent weeks, including here in southern Manitoba.

Doctor Michael Routledge, Chief Medical Officer of Health for Southern Health-Santé Sud, says the smoke, even if at moderate levels, can impact people's health, especially for those who already have underlying respiratory issues like asthma. He explains if symptoms arise, it's never a bad idea to get checked by a physician or other health care provider.

"If you're, for example, having coughing, difficulty breathing, worsening breathing; whether it's related to the smoke or not, those are the kind of symptoms, clearly, that we want people to be assessed by a healthcare provider. So knowing that there may be some air quality and smoke issues in your area, combined with symptoms - even more so that combination of presenting symptoms and environmental conditions - [it's] always a good idea to check with your doctor."

On top of compromised air quality, Routledge says heat can also be a major irritant.

"Often times we're talking about the same underlying medical conditions that put people at risk. So when you have smoke combined with hot conditions, that just increases the risk."

He notes a key to protecting yourself in these conditions is to be aware.

"Making sure that, for example, if you're somebody who has a respiratory condition, say asthma for example, that your condition's treated as maximally as it can be. Another step is if there are concerning conditions; smoke, heat outside, that you take steps to maybe limit the exposure. So if you're working outside all day, for example, you're taking breaks, you're making sure you're staying hydrated."

Routledge notes whatever you can do to limit, if not eliminate, your exposure to poor air and heat.