Metro Vancouver under air quality advisory due to wildfire smoke

Metro Vancouver Regional District issued an air quality advisory for this weekend due to smoky skies over the lower mainland.

During the province’s most destructive wildfire season on record, a cloud of fine particulate matter is being cast over Metro Vancouver, with elevated concentrations in the Central and Eastern Fraser Valley.

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The B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) says reducing exposure to wildfire smoke is important for protecting your health. Infants and young children, older adults, people with chronic conditions, and people who are pregnant, should take extra care in smoky conditions.

It recommends purchasing a portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter or seeking out clean air within your community, such as in libraries, community centres or shopping malls.

Currently, there are 386 wildfires burning across the province, 14 of which are of note. On Aug. 18, the Province of B.C. declared a state of emergency due to the ongoing wildfire situation.

Wildfires and smoke are expected in B.C. during the summer months and are expected to become more prevalent due to the human-caused climate crisis.

The provincial government is reminding folks to check in on their loved ones who may be at higher risk when air quality is poor.

“Smoke can make it harder for your lungs to get oxygen to your blood. It can also irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Fine particulate matter in wildfire smoke matter carries the greatest risk to people’s health because it can be inhaled deep into the lungs and cause inflammation and irritation.

The province says that while people respond differently to smoke, “most symptoms are relatively mild and can be managed without medical attention. If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain or discomfort, or severe cough, call 811 or contact a health-care provider. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.”