Surviving the Smokeanagan

By Duane Grandbois

Jul 29, 2018 | 8:31 AM

Special air quality statement in effect for:

Central Okanagan
North Okanagan
South Okanagan
During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour.

Wildfire smoke is a natural part of our environment but it is important to be mindful that exposure to smoke may affect your health.

People with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly, infants, children and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects.

The bulletin can be accessed online at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/
air/air-quality/air-advisories

1.5 Hectare Blaze

Crews battling wildfire near Cherryville

44m ago

Too Hot for Dogs

Don't leave pets alone in hot vehicles: RCMP

1h ago

Smoky Skies

Air quality warning issued for the Okanagan

3h ago

For general information about wildfire smoke and your health, contact HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 (toll free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

Stay inside if you have breathing difficulties. Find an indoor place that’s cool and ventilated. Using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help. If you open the windows you may let in more polluted air. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, consider going to a public place (library, shopping mall, recreation centre) that is air-conditioned.

Be air aware! Check your local weather forecasts and alerts so you know when to take extra care.

For more information on current air quality, see: www.bcairquality.ca.

Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.

Issued by Environment Canada and the B.C. Ministry of Environment

Photo Credit: Google Images, Global News

by Duane Grandbois