Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement that covers the entire Regional District of East Kootenay (and beyond) due to smoke from wildfires in other parts of the province.

Depending on conditions and wind, parts of the region could experience smoky skies over the next few days.

“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,” Environment Canada noted in its alert.

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

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.

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

An on-line resource you can use to see smoke forecasts

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