Wildfire smoke from local and distant fires has prompted the BC government, Interior Health and First Nation Health Authority to issue a smoky skies bulletin for the Columbia Valley, Cranbrook and Kimberley areas of the East Kootenay today (August 23).

The East Kootenay is being impacted by smoke from the Doctor Creek fire near Canal Flats, while smoke from the Christie Mountain and Washington State wildfires continue to impact the South Okanagan.

During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour, the smoky skies bulletin points out.

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, respiratory infections such as COVID19, older adults, pregnant women and infants, children, and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure.

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.
• If you have asthma or other chronic illness, carry any rescue (fast-acting) medications with you at all times and activate your personal care plan that has been designed with your family physician.
• Make sure that children and others who cannot care for themselves follow the same advice.

e-KNOW

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