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Wildfire smoke prompts another air quality alert
Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility throughout the East Kootenay and beyond over the next 24-48 hours.
As a result, Environment Canada today issued a yellow air quality warning.
During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour. Monitor the situation for any wildfires near your area at EmergencyInfoBC.
Follow all emergency announcements relevant to your location.
Actions you can take for regions under yellow warnings:
Exposure to smoke can affect your health. Postpone or reduce strenuous outdoor activities until the warning has ended. Spend time indoors in a space with cleaner air.
Some people are more likely to be negatively impacted by smoke. This includes people with lung and heart conditions, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, people aged 65 and older, and anyone whose health is affected by a chronic condition or acute illness.
During smoky conditions:
Follow your common sense. Stop or reduce your activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable or you feel unwell. Stay cool and drink plenty of fluids. Carry any rescue medications with you at all times. Make sure that children and others who cannot care for themselves follow the same advice.
Tips to reduce your smoke exposure
Smoke levels may still be elevated indoors, so stay aware of your symptoms even when you are indoors. When indoors, keep windows and doors closed. If it is hot, prioritize keeping cool. Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Use a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.
Do-it-yourself air cleaners may also be used if other options are unavailable.
If your home is smoky or hot, spend time in places with cleaner, air conditioned air such as community centres, libraries, or malls.
If you must be outside, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke. Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health.
When in a vehicle, keep windows closed with the air flow (or air conditioning) set to recirculate.
Check on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke.
e-KNOW file photo
e-KNOW
