Municipalité de Saint-Lazare

Air quality: precautions to take over the next few days

A fire involving decomposing tree stumps, branches and trunks is in progress at the Sablière Chevrier et Fils. Although there is no immediate danger of the fire spreading outside the quarry site, it is creating smoke and, in some cases, odours that may be noticeable for a few days yet. According to available information, the burning material contains no hazardous substances.

The City is working to extinguish the fire as quickly as possible. It may take a few more days to clear the debris and extinguish the fire. During the work, which is taking place during the day, more smoke may be observed. The fire department is on site to monitor the situation with the company, in collaboration with the Ministère de l'Environnement de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) and the Direction de santé publique (DSPu) de la Montérégie. In addition, the DSPu, in collaboration with the MELCCFP, is closely monitoring air quality in the areas concerned.

For the duration of operations, the DSPu de la Montérégie recommends that people living near the quarry:

• Avoid outdoor activities (it is still possible to circulate outside for comings and goings)
• Close windows and doors;
• Turn off air exchangers or set them to indoor recirculation mode to prevent outside air from entering the house;
• Ensure that family members or friends who are alone, ill or very old also avoid exposure to outside air.

Smoke or odours from the fire could be unpleasant for some people. Those most vulnerable to the impact of smoke include young children, the elderly and people with respiratory or heart problems. Exposure to smoke can cause headaches, coughing and irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.

The presence of smoke and odor is a good indicator of whether air quality is impaired. The best way to protect yourself from smoke is to reduce exposure by staying indoors.

If you feel any symptoms related to the fire, please contact Info-Santé or 811.

Source : Direction de santé publique de la Montérégie

Tr: Ville de Saint-Lazare