Parts of central Newfoundland can expect to see increased smoke in the area today and tomorrow due to the raging wildfires.

That is due to a change in wind direction, pushing the smoke towards Grand Falls-Windsor, Bishop’s Falls, and Botwood. The smoke is expected to be in the air until about 7 p.m. Friday.

There is no evacuation required at this time, however, it is recommended that residents stay inside at this time.

Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Janice Fitzgerald says it is important to reduce exposure as much as possible by closing windows and doors, limiting outdoor activity—especially strenuous activity, and not going outdoors at all if the smoke is really bad. In general, she says to find the cleanest air possible and to also stay hydrated.

She says if the temperature is comfortable, residents should turn off or use recirculation settings on their HVAC system.

Anyone with sensitivities to the smoke who feels their symptoms are worsening should call 811 or their health care provider.

Residents impacted by the state of emergency and poor air quality can avail of buses traveling to the shelter at the Hodder Memorial Centre in Deer Lake. The buses run daily at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. from the Salvation Army Church in Bishop’s Falls, the Salvation Army Citadel in Botwood, and the Joe Byrne Arena and Windsor Stadium in Grand Falls.

Pets are welcome on the bus, but must be in a proper carrier. In Deer Lake, volunteers will help transport the pet to a shelter at the fire hall.

Two toll-free numbers have been set up to field inquiries about the situation:

• 1-833-845-0775: Provincial Emergency Operations Centre Phone Line for inquiries regarding supplies, transportation and general questions.
• 1-833-960-4571: Central Health Phone Line for all health inquiries.

Meanwhile, officials will reassess the status of the Bay d’Espoir Highway to determine whether it’s safe to keep it open to traffic.

The highway which cuts through the interior of the island, reopened on Tuesday and remained open to traffic yesterday.

Drivers are reminded to drive carefully and not to stop while the road remains open.

Cabin owners are also asked to stay out of the area so as not to endanger themselves or first responders. Forest resource roads in the area remain closed.