The Ministry of Environment and Island Health air quality advisory for Duncan has been extended to the entire Cowichan Valley on Dec. 11 because of high concentrations of fine particulates that are expected to persist until weather conditions change.
An air advisory for the Duncan area was issued on Dec. 8, briefly cancelled on Dec. 9, and is now reinstated and widened.
Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted.
Staying indoors and in air conditioned spaces helps to reduce fine particulate exposure.
Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease.
Open burning restrictions are now in effect for the Cowichan Valley within 15 kilometres of Duncan for a period of three days.
No new fires may be initiated and no additional material may be added to existing fires.
For more information on burning restrictions, see www.bcairquality.ca.
