A number of outdoor events are scheduled to go ahead this weekend, despite the Air Quality Index (AQI) reporting readings that are fair to poor across the Capital region.
The largest event is the 2010 Canadian Derby Edmonton Marathon, which will see thousands of runners compete in varying distances on Saturday and Sunday.
According to the event's website, organizers are "following Alberta Health Services guidelines and currently there is no indication or requirement for event cancellation."
Officials assure they are in direct contact with key medical personnel and Environment Canada, and will post any changes to race details online.
One runner who completed her first-ever five kilometre race on Saturday said the haze was a non-issue.
"The smoke didn't bother me," said Morgan Carthcart.
"I think it's because it's cleared up a bit."
But some athletes taking part in the 14th Annual Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival at Louise McKinney Park disagree.
"Your lungs are wanting to explode because the smoke is just so heavy," said one participant.
A blast of wind is credited with clearing some of the haze that blew in from B.C. forest fires on Thursday. Weather forecasts also indicate intermittent rain throughout the weekend, which should further clear the air.
Still, with 270 fires still raging on the West Coast, Alberta Health Services is advising people to limit strenuous activity while outdoors. The major concern is the high level of particulate matter, which can be absorbed into the lungs, sticking to the bronchial walls.
"You do run the risk of getting irritation in your respiratory tract, in your nose and lungs," said Dr. Gerry Predy during a press conference on Friday.
With Files from Sean Amato
