During periods of poor air quality, here are some tips from the Government of British Columbia:
• Stop or reduce your activity level if breathing becomes difficult or you feel unwell.
• Stay cool and drink plenty of fluids.
• Carry any rescue medications with you at all times.
• Make sure that children and others who cannot care for themselves follow the same advice.
Find out more about the latest air quality advisories and smoky skies bulletins in B.C. on the B.C. Air Quality website.
Here is the current air quality index for B.C. communities from Environment Canada.
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about air quality.
As B.C. continues to experience wildfires this summer, here are some resources to keep you informed:
Remember to only call 9-1-1 if there’s an emergency. Don’t call 9-1-1 for general information or updates.
(Image from the Government of British Columbia)
Wildfire smoke is impacting many parts of British Columbia.
From Dease Lake in the Northwest to the Elk Valley in the southeast, to the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island, Environment Canada air quality advisories and smoky skies bulletins cover most of B.C.
Metro Vancouver has issued an an air quality advisory for Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley because of high concentrations of fine particulate matter due to wildfire smoke from fires burning throughout the Pacific Northwest. More details in this air quality statement from Environment Canada. Read more about the Fraser Valley Regional District’s air quality advisory.
Here is some advice from Metro Vancouver:
Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease. If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, follow the advice of your health care provider. As we are in the summer season with warm temperatures, it is also important to stay cool and hydrated. Indoor spaces with air conditioning may offer relief from both heat and air pollution.
Additional information about air quality advisories and smoky skies bulletins is available from the Government of British Columbia.
As B.C.’s summer heat continues, we have some reminders:
- If someone is in medical distress, call 9-1-1 for help.
- Call 8-1-1 for health questions on heat-related symptoms.
- Check with your city or municipality for information about community facilities with air conditioning, where you can escape the heat and cool off.
More information about heat-related illness from HealthLinkBC.
E-Comm staff joined our City of Vancouver and Vancouver Police Department Partners in the 40th Annual Vancouver Pride Parade. We’re proud to be a part of this community celebration!
