Metro Vancouver announces air quality advisory for district, Fraser Valley

The District of Metro Vancouver has issued an air quality advisory for the region along with parts of the Fraser Valley.

It says recent hot, sunny weather has led to elevated smog levels, and they expect the advisory to be in place for at least a few days.

“Hot and sunny weather in combination with local emissions has resulted in elevated levels of ground-level ozone,” it said in a public service announcement Monday.

The advisory reportedly concerns eastern Metro Vancouver and central and eastern Fraser Valley.

The district says residents should monitor air quality regularly, monitor their own symptoms, seek clean, cool air where possible, and consider postponing outdoor activities, especially “those with lung and heart conditions, diabetes, pregnant people, infants, children, and older adults.”

Metro Vancouver has issued a list of other actions you can take to protect your lungs. They include:

• Take it easy and limit outdoor exercise, because the harder you breathe, the more air pollution you inhale.
• Stay in cool, air-conditioned spaces, especially during the afternoon when ozone levels are at their highest.
• Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated can alleviate some respiratory symptoms.
• Continue to manage pre-existing chronic health conditions such as asthma, COPD or other lung disease, heart disease, and/or diabetes. Use symptom-management medications, such as inhalers, as needed. Seek medical attention if symptoms continue to be bothersome.
• Reduce indoor sources of air pollution, such as smoking and vacuuming.

It says masks worn to protect against COVID-19 provide little protection from gases such as ozone.

The district says the advisory will remain in effect until further notice.