The Elk Valley and Kootenay National Park (KNP) areas are under a Smoky Skies Bulletin issued by Environment Canada.

The most easterly segments of the East Kootenay are being impacted or are likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke over the next 24 hours.

In Southern Interior areas, smoke conditions remain localized. Conditions may be variable, and precipitation may only temporarily improve conditions

Overall conditions are expected to improve through the day.

Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations. Everyone can take action to reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke.

People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke.

Speak with your health care provider about developing a management plan for wildfire smoke events and maintaining a supply of necessary medications at home and always carrying these medications with you during wildfire season.

Take a break from the smoke at a location in your community where you can find clean, cool air.

If you must spend time outdoors, a well-fitted respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH certified N95 or equivalent respirator) that does not allow air to pass through small openings between the mask and face, can help reduce your exposure to the fine particles in smoke.

These fine particles generally pose the greatest risk to health. However, respirators do not reduce exposure to the gases in wildfire smoke.

It is important to listen to your body and reduce or stop activities if you are experiencing symptoms.

e-KNOW file photo

e-KNOW

Article Share