Air Quality Advisory Cancelled
October 8, 2022
The fine particulate matter Air Quality Advisory for the Eastern Fraser Valley that was in effect since October 4 was canceled on the evening of October 7. Air quality has improved due to a change in weather that has brought cleaner air into the entire region and helped reduce levels of smoke due to wildfires.
Although the Advisory has been cancelled, residents should still take care if they are experiencing discomfort with the air quality in their area.
Tips to Reduce Your Personal Health Risk
- Avoid roads with heavy vehicle traffic and areas with wood smoke.
- Stay cool and drink plenty of water.
- Continue to manage acute infections such as COVID-19, or pre-existing chronic medical conditions such as lung disease, heart disease, COPD, asthma and/or diabetes. If symptoms continue to be bothersome, seek medical attention.
- Maintaining good overall health and avoiding smoking is a good way to prevent health effects resulting from short-term exposure to air pollution.
- Most masks worn to reduce transmission of COVID-19 provide limited protection from fine particulate matter, though a tightly-fitted, multi-layer mask can help to reduce exposure.
And especially for persons with chronic underlying medical conditions:
- Stay in a cool, air-conditioned environment and reduce indoor pollution sources such as smoking, burning other materials, and vacuuming.
- Run an air cleaner. Some room air cleaners, such as those with HEPA filters, can help reduce indoor particulate levels provided they are the right size for your home and filters are changed regularly.
- Consider taking shelter in air-conditioned buildings which have large indoor volumes and limited entry of outdoor air (e.g., community centre, library, mall, etc.).
If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, seek prompt medical attention. Call 911 in case of an emergency.
Call 811 for 24/7 non-emergency health advice from HealthLink BC.
Learn more:
- Fact sheets on the health effects of wildfire smoke
- Real-time air quality readings at www.airmap.ca
- Environment Canada
- Sign up for air quality alerts in your area