Wildfire smoke could drift into North Okanagan, could pose risk to people

Interior Health has urged people to be prepared for lower air quality as wildfire smoke could drift into the North Okanagan.

The B.C. Wildfire Service’s forecast said smoke from the fires burning near Boston Bar, south of Lilloeet, could blow east and settle over the North Okanagan and Shuswap, especially around Armstrong, Endery and Sicamous.

With haze coming to the Okanagan, Interior Health warned that wildfire smoke can affect everyone and urges people to reduce their exposure. That included monitoring the Air Quality Health Index, Map and Alerts; limiting time outdoors and keeping doors and windows closed in hazy conditions; running a portable HEPA air cleaner in the home; and avoiding other indoor air pollutants such as combustible tobacco and vapes, heating with wood stoves, and burning candles.

People could also wear well-fitted N95 or KN95 respirators when outdoors, with IH noting they filter smoke particles, whereas cloth and surgical masks do not.