An air quality advisory has been issued for several communities in the Peace Country due to wildfire smoke concerns.
According to Environment Canada, wildfire smoke is expected to cause “very poor” air quality and reduced visibility in some areas, which can vary considerably from hour to hour.
Officials suggest that poor air quality is expected to persist through the weekend and into early next week.
The provincial health authority says everyone is considered at risk regardless of their age or health due to the fine particles in wildfire smoke; however, seniors, pregnant women, smokers, infants, and those with existing ailments or chronic health conditions should avoid spending time outdoors altogether.
When indoors, Environment Canada recommends keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible. Additionally, property owners are encouraged to consider installing a good quality air filter in ventilation systems and everyone is urged to use a certified portable air purifier that can filter fine particles.
Residents are asked to be mindful of symptoms of smoke inhalation such as eye and throat irritation, and anyone who suspects they might be having a medical emergency is urged to seek immediate medical assistance.
