News and event information for Williams Lake, BC - as it happens.

Public Service Announcement from Interior Health

Important Health Information for People Living in the Cariboo and Surrounding Areas Affected by Heavy Smoke

Due to increased smoke from wildfires in the area, Interior Health is again reminding residents to take appropriate steps to protect their health.

For Individuals Considered "High Risk"For anyone considered at high-risk (those with heart or lung conditions, the elderly, young children, and pregnant women) who is living in an area with heavy smoke conditions due to forest fires, you should consider moving to an area where there is less or no smoke.

To check projected smoke in your area you can view the new BlueSky smoke forecasting system at http://www.bcairquality.ca/bluesky/index.html. For specific air quality in some communities within the province, see www.bcairquality.ca/readings/index.html or call (250) 952-2039.

These individuals should watch for any change in symptoms that may be due to smoke exposure, persistent cough or wheezing, shortness of breath or other symptoms consistent with worsening of their underlying chronic health condition. If any symptoms are noted, affected individuals should take steps to reduce their exposure to smoke (see "Reducing Exposure to Smoke" below) and, if necessary, call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 available toll free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or see their physician, local healthcare provider or local walk-in clinic. People with severe symptoms should present themselves to the nearest Emergency Department or health office where their healthcare provider is located.

If you are otherwise healthy but experiencing symptoms due to heavy smoke, follow the steps below to reduce your exposure.

Reducing Exposure to Smoke

• Use common sense regarding outdoor physical activity - if your breathing becomes difficult or uncomfortable, stop or reduce the activity.
• You may be able to reduce your exposure to smoke by moving to cleaner air. Large air conditioned areas such as shopping malls will likely provide improved air quality. However, not all air conditioning systems (e.g. some household systems) will necessarily improve air quality. Conditions can vary dramatically by area and elevation.
• Residents with asthma or other chronic illness should activate their asthma or personal care plan.
• If necessary, see your physician, health care provider or visit a local walk-in clinic.

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