File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Amandalina Letterio

Smoke in the Air

Long-term effects of smoke inhalation should be avoided: Interior Health

Jul 22, 2021 | 4:01 PM

KAMLOOPS — It has been almost a month of a smoke-filled sky in Kamloops and the recommendation from Interior Health remains the same: stay indoors, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor exercise — but what about the long-term effects of smoke inhalation?

“There are long-term effects of smoke and other air pollution, particularly for pregnant people and infants and small children because they have higher metabolic rates, they’re breathing more,” explained Dr. Carol Fenton, medical health officer at Interior Health.

“Regardless of their level of activity, so they’re taking in more of that air. And for those who have developing lungs, it may affect their development and their long-term risk,” she continued.

Although some are more at risk, like those with underlying health and lung issues, Dr. Fenton said long-term smoke inhalation really isn’t good for anyone.

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Interior Health recommends getting outside at times when the smoke subsides, but if not, taking advantage of public facilities like community centres, malls and libraries.

For people without air conditioning and who are unable to open their windows, Dr. Fenton has a useful tip to cool down your place.

“We are very lucky in the Interior that it’s very dry, so you can use the action of evaporation to lower the temperature in your homes. You can wet towels and blankets and hang them up and point fans at them and that evaporation action will cool down the space,” she said.

The concourse at the Sandman Centre, located at 300 Lorne street in Kamloops, is open everyday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. as a smoke refuge to provide residents with temporary relief from the smoke.