The Christie Mountain fire.
(STEVE ARSTAD / iNFOnews.ca)
August 23, 2020 - 8:39 AM
Smoke from the Christie Mountain wildfire is expected to linger over the South Okanagan through the weekend.
"Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gasses which includes many chemicals that can harm your health," Environment Canada said in a smoky skies bulletin.
While conditions in some areas are fairly blue-sky at the moment, they can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour.
Wildfire smoke is a natural part of the environment but it is important to mindful that exposure to smoke may affect your health, according to the release.
"People with pre-existing health conditions, respiratory infections such as COVID-19, older adults, pregnant women and infants, children, and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure," the Ministry of Environment said.
During smoky conditions stop or reduce activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable or you feel unwell, Environment Canada said in the statement.
"Stay cool and drink plenty of fluids and if you have asthma or other chronic illness, carry any rescue (fast-acting) medications with you at all times and activate your personal care plan that has been designed with your family physician," they said.
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