Air Quality Health Index to reach High Risk level, August 20
West Shore Voice News
That’s expected to subside to Moderate Risk (Level 5) by 7 pm this evening, and to Low Risk (Level 2) by 10 pm. Smoky skies will continue across most of the province for the next few days. https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/next18Hourlies/bcaq-010_e.html
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.
Local smoke levels may vary based on wind direction and fire characteristics but, until a significant change in the provincial weather pattern occurs, widespread air quality improvements are not expected. 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. People with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly, infants, children and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure. See: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/
air/air-quality/air-advisories
For general information about wildfire smoke and your health, contact HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 (toll free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week). Be air aware! Check your local weather forecasts and alerts so you know when to take extra care.
More: www.bcairquality.ca | www.airhealth.ca
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