**TIMMINS AND DISTRICT HOSPITAL MEDIA RELEASE**

Timmins and District Hospital continues to closely monitor and assess the impact of the air quality in and around Timmins that is coming from the Elk Lake forest fires.

“Our primary goal continues to be the health and safety of our patients, our staff, and maintain the air quality inside the building,” said Blaise McNeil, Chief Executive Officer of the Timmins and District Hospital.

A number of steps have been taken to minimize air flow into the building while also maintaining proper ventilation for continued operation of the Hospital.

In addition, the Hospital is also putting plans in place to increase our capacity in certain areas which could be affected by increased patient activity.

The Hospital will continue to monitor the air quality situation over the City and take other steps as necessary.  The Hospital has plans in place should we need to increase our level of response. 

We will continue to keep our patients, staff and families updated as more information is available.