AUGUSTA- It has been reported that a number of fires are burning in
the Province of Quebec, Canada.   As a result, on Wednesday,
ground-level Particle Pollution concentrations are expected to reach
unhealthy levels in Maine according to the Maine Department of
Environmental Protection.  As long as fires continue to burn in Quebec,
smoke will be an issue for the foreseeable future. When the winds are
right smoke and the resulting high Particle Pollution values will be
brought to Maine, at times reaching unhealthy levels.  

Individuals are encouraged to check the latest air quality forecast
using the hotline, web site, EnviroFlash or Twitter.

In slightly to mildly smoky areas individuals suffering from a
respiratory disease, children, the elderly and those with heart disease
should:
*    Stay indoors with windows and doors closed,
*    Avoid strenuous activity, such as jogging,
*    Avoid using aerosol products such as cleaners, paints, and other
lung irritants,
*    Use medications as prescribed, and
*    Give yourself a break!  Take it easy!

In very smoky areas everyone should follow these precautions to limit
their exposure to particle pollution.

For more information call DEP's toll free ozone hotline at
1-800-223-1196 or visit DEP's air quality web site by going to
MaineDEP.com  and select 'Maine Air Quality
Forecast.'  You can sign up for EnviroFlash and receive emails or texts
when air quality is expected to be poor.  You can follow the forecast on
Twitter.  Both of these options are available from the Air Quality
Forecast home page.