The Government of B.C., in tandem with Interior Health, has issued a special air quality statement as smoke settles into the Columbia Valley and hangs over Golden.
The Smoky Skies Bulletin warns od degraded air quality as wildfires continue to burn across the province. The smoke is expected to linger over the next couple days and into the end of the week. Precipation may help temporarily alleviate smoke conditions in the area.
Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk for complications due to smoke inhalation.
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The bulletin recommends that you stop or reduce physicial activity if breathing becomes uncomfortable or if you feel unwell. Drink plenty of fluids.
If you are unsure whether you need medical care, call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1.
The full bulletin can be accessed online at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/airland-water/air/air-quality/air-advisories.
In Golden, two wildfires burning to the north have the chance to affect air quality, with a 98 hectare fire at Carrol Creek and and a 40 hectare fire at Blackwater Ridge.
There are currently approximately 300 active fires in the province, with 1,004 fires burning total since the start of wildfire season.
