Special Air Quality Statement issued for Kootenay, Boundary regions
By Nelson Daily Staff
Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for most of the southern areas of BC, including the Kootenays, Boundary, Arrow and Kootenay Lake regions.
“Smoke is causing poor air quality and reducing visibility. Smoke is expected or occurring,” the Environment Canada Statement said.
“The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, in collaboration with the Interior and Northern Health Authorities, has continued a Smoky Skies Bulletin for North Thompson, South Thompson, Shuswap, 100 Mile, Cariboo (North and South), Chilcotin, Nicola, Okanagan, Similkameen, Fraser Canyon, East Kootenay, East Columbia, West Kootenay, West Columbia, Yoho Park, Kootenay Lake, Arrow and Slocan Lakes, Elk Valley, and Boundary due to wildfire smoke.”
Environment Canada said smoke concentrations will vary widely as winds, fire behaviour and temperatures change.
“Avoid strenuous outdoor activities. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact your health care provider: difficulty in breathing, chest pain or discomfort, and sudden onset of cough or irritation of airways. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, and lung or heart disease.”
Environment Canada said this bulletin will remain in effect until further notice.
“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.
“People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.”
The public is advised to stay inside if they have breathing difficulties or 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.
