Yukon's medical health office issues fire smoke warning

Yukon residents with respiratory-related illnesses should limit exercise and being outdoors, according to the territory's medical officer of health.

Dr. Brendan Hanley says that forest fire smoke over much of Yukon triggered the warning. The smoke may intensify because of wind patterns, he added, so people affected who are on medication should have a contingency plan in place in case they need medical assistance.

Dr. Hanley says that people who are not especially sensitive to the smoke should have nothing to worry about.

"In terms of severe or long term affects to health, that people otherwise healthy don't need to have any special concerns," he said.

According to Hanley, the warning is being issued, in part, because it appears the territory's smoky conditions may last for a while.