People with breathing issues should avoid dump smoke: official

Nunavut's top health official is urging residents of Iqaluit with respiratory conditions to take precautions against smoke from the city's dump fire.

Dr. Maureen Baikie, Nunavut's Chief Medical Officer of Health, says while the smoke has not been heavy it could affect people with breathing problems.

She says people with asthma or emphysema could be affected.

"They are the ones that are most at risk from smoke so we advise them that if they are smelling smoke they should stay indoors with all the doors and windows closed."

Baikie says if the smoke worsens, her office will consider issuing further advisories. 

Fire crews were called to the dump on Tuesday afternoon. They were able to contain the fire but were not able to extinguish it. Iqaluit City Council has opted to let the fire burn.