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Tips to breathe easier during smoky sky bulletins

Not only are the current wildfires a serious safety risk, but the smoke from these fires can be harmful to our health.
prince-george-smoky-sky
Wildfire smoke creating a haze in the sky in Prince George.

Not only are the current wildfires a serious safety risk, but the smoke from these fires can be harmful to our health, Northern Health warns, especially to expecting women, children, the elderly, and those with chronic illness.

Here are some quick tips for breathing a little easier during a smoky skies bulletin:

  • Limit your exposure to wildfire smoke
    • Stay indoors and keep the air clean (windows/doors closed, no smoking, no burning fireplaces/candles/incense, no vacuuming, use a HEPA or EP indoor air cleaner if available).
    • Reduce the amount of time spent outdoors and avoid rigorous outdoor activities.
    • When in a vehicle, keep windows closed with air conditioning set to recirculate.
  • Visit a clean air shelter or a location that has a large volume of air that is air conditioned and filters the air, such as shopping malls, swimming pools, public libraries, etc.
  • People with asthma or other chronic illness should ensure they have an adequate supply of inhalers/medication and should activate their asthma or personal care plans. Some people may consider leaving the smoke-filled area altogether if symptoms cannot be managed according to their care plan.
  • Visit HealthLinkBC, call 8-1-1 (non-emergency), see your doctor, or call 9-1-1 in an emergency if you’re experiencing symptoms, ranging from eye, nose, and throat irritation to difficulties breathing and cardiovascular distress.
  • Be aware of current air quality information by visiting bcairquality.ca.