Wildfire smoke to impact Kamloops, Shuswap and Merritt areas into the weekend

The B.C. government said brief smoke expose can cause health problems, but exposure over a prolonged period can lead to the possibility more serious concerns later on.

“Short-term smoke exposure can cause headaches, irritated eyes, sore throat, coughing and wheezing. It can also worsen existing heart and lung conditions. In the long term, smoke exposure can contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and dementia,” said the B.C. government.

“Some people are at greater risk of serious acute health effects, including people with asthma, heart disease or diabetes, as well as people who are pregnant, infants, young children and older adults.”

You can reduce smoke exposure by creating or going to a clean air space with a commercial or DIY air purifier or an HVAC filtration system.

You can also reduce impacts of wildfire smoke through several other ways:

Keep cool. If temperatures are high and air quality is poor, be aware that heat poses a larger risk than smoke.
Consider moving activities indoors and, spend time in cooler, indoor public spaces such as libraries, community centres or shopping malls.
Check if your community has set up clean-air spaces for people to get a break from the smoke.
Reduce the amount of time spent outdoors and avoid strenuous exercise.
Consider wearing a well-fitted N95/KN95/KF94 respirator mask if being outdoors is necessary.
Outdoor workers should follow workplace guidance for working in wildfire smoke.
Avoid activities that require a source of combustion, like smoking and vaping and lighting candles or a wood-burning stove.

“People at greater risk of serious health effects are encouraged to take extra precautions. For instance, people with chronic health conditions may want to review their management plans and ensure they have an adequate supply of medications,” said provincial officials.

“Parents and caregivers are asked to pay closer attention to infants and young children, while older adults and pregnant people are encouraged to take additional precautions during smoky periods.”

You can keep track of the air quality through the B.C. Government’s Air Quality Health Index (AGHI), Environment Canada’s Air Quality Index or AQmap.ca.

You can also keep track of wildfire smoke forecasts through the BC Wildfire Service’s website or FireSmoke.ca.

by Elora McCormack

Wildfire smoke to impact Kamloops, Shuswap and Merritt areas into the weekend

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