Low air quality as wildfire smoke continues to blanket Thompson-Okanagan

A special air quality statement has been extended or issued for most of B.C. due to wildfire smoke.

There are wildfires of note burning near Hope, in Manning Park, near Hudson’s Hope and Kaslo. Smoke is also coming into the province from wildfires south of the border.

“Many regions of B.C. are being impacted or are likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke over the next 24-48 hours,” the statement, issued by Environment Canada today, Sept. 13, says. “Widespread smoke from long-range transport is expected across the southern portion of the province as well as local smoke near the active wildfires.”

The air quality index shows moderate readings for today through tomorrow evening, with higher, but still moderate, readings in Kamloops and the North Okanagan.

Still, the statement urges caution.

“In general, wearing a mask is not the best way to protect your health during a smoke event,” it says. “In fact, masks may lead to a false sense of security, which may encourage increased physical activity and time spent outdoors, meaning increased exposure to smoke. They can also make breathing more difficult.”

Instead, people experiencing breathing difficulties should stay inside in a place that is cool and well ventilated.

“Using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help,” it says. “If you open the windows you may let in more polluted air.”

In a separate statement for the Lower Mainland, Environment Canada says air quality may improve slightly for parts of that region but that it’s not expected to improve much until there is a change in the weather.

Exposure to wildfire smoke is a more serious concern for people with underlying conditions such as lung disease, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and/or diabetes; individuals with respiratory infections; pregnant women and infants; children; older adults..

Outdoor workers are getting increased exposure, as are the homeless.

“If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, seek prompt medical attention,” the statement adivses. “Call 911 in the case of an emergency.”

More information on the health effects of wildfire smoke and how to reduce exposure can be found here.

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