What to Do During Smoky Conditions in Boundary Country

The wildfire season of 2022 was a good one for Boundary Country when compared with some recent other ones, with fewer fires and less damage.

Moreover the West Kootenay region is now perhaps more prepared against future wildfire disasters than ever thanks to funding from the government and hard efforts by local nonprofit organizations, such as West Boundary Community Forest, which recently completed multiple projects in the region, including at Jewel Lake.

Regardless, we have not been without notices posted on British Columbia’s Smoky Skies Bulletin, which issues warnings when air quality approaches potentially dangerous levels.

“During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour,” says B.C. Air Quality. “Wildfire smoke is a natural part of our environment but it is important to be mindful that exposure to smoke may affect your health.”

What to Do During Smoky Conditions

There are several ways to be mindful of smoky conditions in Boundary Country and beyond.

1. Stay cool and as hydrated as possible at all times.
2. Be aware of your risk level. “People with pre-existing health conditions, respiratory infections, older adults, pregnant women and infants, children, and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure,” notes B.C. Air Quality.
3. Monitor symptoms, understanding that “people respond differently to smoke.” Mild irritation and discomfort are common “and usually disappear when the smoke clears.”
4. If you are unsure whether you need medical care, call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1.
5. If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a severe cough, contact your health care provider or a walk-in clinic. If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

How to Reduce Smoke Exposure

Minimizing your exposure to wildfire smoke is ideal regardless of your risk level.

1. Stay indoors when possible.
2. Utilizing a high efficiency particulate air filter indoors will further mitigate presence of smoke. If not, a forced air heating or cooling system works—just change the filter and set the fan to run continuously.
3. “Reduce indoor air pollution sources such as smoking, burning incense, and frying foods,” suggests B.C. Air Quality.
4. When driving, run air conditioning with windows closed. Set ventilation to recirculate if your vehicle has this setting.
5. “Maintaining good overall health is a good way to prevent health effects resulting from short-term exposure to air pollution,” states B.C. Air Quality.

Content provided by Woodfin & Co, a Great Canadian Wellness brand based in Boundary Country.