A Special Air Quality Statement is in effect for the southern East Kootenay, as Environment Canada said high concentrations of fine particulate matter have been detected in the air.
Environment Canada officials said the advisory is expected to stick around until weather conditions change.
They said exposure for pregnant women, infants, and older adults and people with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes are at a heightened risk of exposure to air pollution.
Those with respiratory infections such as COVID-19 also have a greater risk.
“Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions or acute infections should postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted,” said Environment Canada officials. “Anyone experiencing symptoms such as continuing eye or throat irritation, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cough or wheezing, should follow the advice of their health care provider.”
You can also reduce your risk of exposure by staying indoors when you can.
More: B.C. Government Air Quality Monitoring