Wildfire smoke: Stay indoors and close windows when possible, Interior Health advises

| September 14, 2020 in Wildfire

Local Community Advertising

Interior Health (IH) is advising residents to stay indoors as much as possible and close their windows as the region’s air quality remains at dangerous levels. 

The cause is smoke from wildfires in the western USA. 

Early this morning, Environment Canada reissued a statement explaining that smoky skies are likely to remain over the next one to three days.

Much of the province’s south has air rated as 10+ (the most dangerous level) on the Air Quality Health Index.

IH said people with respiratory problems such as asthma, allergies or COPD should be especially cautious. 

They are warned to watch out for: 

·         Difficulty breathing  

·         Chest pain and discomfort

·         Coughing

·         Irritated eyes, nose, and throat

Those with cardiac disease are also warned to be vigilant. 

“If wildfire smoke is triggering mild symptoms individuals should take medications as prescribed and use a rescue inhaler if one has been prescribed,” IH explained.

“You should not take more medication, or take it more often than prescribed.”

IH also suggested those feeling sick because of the smoke should consider leaving the area until the air clears up.

“People should stay indoors as much as possible, and close windows if they can,” the authority explained. 

“Limit or eliminate outdoor exercise until the air clears.”

Schools, meanwhile, are advised to keep classroom windows open and encourage students to wear closely fitted masks.

Students should be kept apart and have their physical education limited. 

Local Community Advertising

Trending Stories

'Trump-style politics': NDP MLA on John Rustad's plan to compensate BC's unvaccinated healthcare workers

BC moves to recriminalize drug use in all public places

Popular Kelowna photographer realizes dream of opening gallery and studio

BC SPCA set to host open houses as half-priced adoptions start today

'An incredible violation': CSIS had officer investigated after she reported a superior raped her in BC

Little Shuswap Lake Indian Band issues warning to mushroom pickers

BC Conservatives ahead of NDP in poll for first time, BC United 'facing political wipeout'

Here’s everything coming to Disney Plus in May 2024