Smoke drifting north from raging wildfires in Washington State has prompted Alberta Health Services to issue an air-quality advisory for the Edmonton zone.

AHS says even healthy people may experience temporary irritation of eyes and throat, and possibly shortness of breath.

Similar advisories have been issued for Calgary and across much of central and southern Alberta.

All residents are advised to be aware of potential health concerns that can be associated with poor air quality.

To reduce exposure to the smoke, AHS advises that people should:

Close and lock all outside windows and doors;

Turn down furnace fans to the minimum setting. Do not attempt to extinguish pilot light;

With air-conditioners, keep the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean;

Avoid running fans, such as "whole-house fans" or "fresh air ventilation systems," that bring more smoke inside;

Close all floor registers;

Close fireplace dampers on wood burning fireplaces;

Do not use wood burning fireplaces or wood stoves;

Drivers should keep windows and vents closed. Run car fans on re-circulate mode to avoid drawing in outdoor air;

Reduce levels of physical activity, as necessary;

Avoid smoking tobacco – smoking puts added stress on your lungs and those around you.

Residents are reminded not to use backyard fire pits or fire boxes in parks when the air quality risk is high or very high, as it is now.

People with respiratory conditions (such as COPD and asthma), or with existing cardiovascular conditions (such as angina, previous heart attack and congestive heart failure), may notice a worsening of symptoms, due to the current air conditions. They should monitor and take precautions routinely recommended by their doctor.

AHS says children and seniors are also at higher risk of smoke-related illness.

Anyone experiencing symptoms can call Health Link at 811 to speak to a registered nurse.

Air quality can vary with weather conditions and prevailing winds. The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.