Hill County Health Department puts out unhealthy air warning

The Hill County Health Department says on its Facebook page that the air quality in Havre is "unhealthy for sensitive groups" including children, older adults, people with heart or lung disease.

Visibility is at 7 miles, the post says.  

A chart of the air quality index posted on the Health Department's Facebook page says people who within the " sensitive groups" should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

"It's ok to be active outside, but take more  breaks and do less intensive activity," the air quality index chart says.

The chart also says people with asthma should follow their asthma action plans and keep quick relief medicine handy. People with heart disease should contact a health provider if they experience shortness of breath or unusual fatigue that may indicate a serious problem.

The cause of the smoke that has filled the air in downtown Havre is not yet know. Hill County Disaster and Emergency Services Coordinator Dave Sheppard said no major fires are burning locally but several are burning in the western part of the state that could be causing the smoke.