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Air quality alert for Cranbrook, Kimberley and South Country
After yesterday’s respite with fresh air, the southwestern section of the East Kootenay is once again blanketed in wildfire smoke.
Environment Canada this morning (August 5) issued an air quality alert for Cranbrook, Kimberley and South Country areas of the region.
These areas are being impacted or are likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke over the next 24-48 hours, Environment Canada said.
During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour.
The next update will be available on August 5, and made available on the Province’s Air Quality Warnings Page (https://aqwarnings. gov.bc.ca/).
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.
Monitor Your Symptoms: Different people have different responses to smoke.
Mild irritation and discomfort such as eye, nose and throat irritation, phlegm production, runny nose, headaches or mild cough are common, and usually disappear when the smoke clears. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.
People with asthma or other chronic illness should follow any personal care plans designed with their family physicians.
If you are unsure whether you need medical care, call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1. If you are experiencing difficulty in breathing, chest pain or discomfort, or a severe cough, contact your physician, walk-in clinic, or emergency department.
If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
e-KNOW file photo
e-KNOW
