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    More support for people affected by wildfire smoke

    healthylife7By No Comments5 Mins Read
    More support for people affected by wildfire smoke

    Summary

    • N95 respirator masks and medical masks are available for free, thanks to the Canadian Red Cross
    • Wildfire smoke exposure can affect health in the short-term and the long-term.
    • The best way to reduce risk from the impacts of wildfire smoke is to reduce exposure, create a clean air space at home, avoid strenuous exercise, consider a well-fitted N95 mask
    • People are encouraged to check with their local government or First Nation for more information on clean air locations in their community
    • Monitor symptoms and seek prompt medical attention for severe symptoms

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    N95 respiratory masks are now available for free in communities in the Interior Health region to help people protect themselves from impacts of wildfire smoke

    On behalf of the Government of Canada, the Canadian Red Cross is distributing N95 respirator masks and medical masks to Canadian organizations located in communities that may be affected by wildfire smoke, respiratory viruses or other public-health events requiring personal protective equipment

    List of communities where masks are available

    N95 respirators masks are effective at reducing exposure to particulate pollution, such as wildfire smoke and smog, as well as respiratory illnesses. N95 respirator masks may be available for free, while supplies last. People can visit the following locations to get masks:

    Community Futures Sun CountryAddress: 203 Railway Ave., AshcroftHours:8 a.m. to 4p.m., Monday to Friday.Kamloops Downtown Business Improvement Area AssociationAddress:202-246 Second Ave., KamloopsHours:8 a.m. to 4p.m., Monday to Friday.Kamloops North Shore BIAAddress:115 Tranquille Rd., KamloopsHours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.The Salvation Army
    Address:    344 Poplar St. N, KamloopsHours:9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Thursday. Ask staff for masks.University of British Columbia – Okanagan campusAddress: 3287 University Way, Kelowna
    Masks are available at the Campus Security Dispatch Office.Lake Country Health Planning SocietyAddress:10080 Main St. N, Lake CountryHours:9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Available at the front desk.Nicola Valley Community Justice Services SocietyAddress: 1999 Garcia St., MerrittHours:8:30 a.m.to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Available at the front desk.District of PeachlandAddress: 4450 6th St., PeachlandHours:8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Available at the front desk.Parm Bains Constituency OfficeAddress:Unit 230, 11331 Coppersmith Way, RichmondHours:10 a.m. to 4p.m., Monday to Friday.Cariboo Friendship SocietyAddress: 99 3rd Avenue S, Williams LakeHours:8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Available at the front desk.Neskonlith Indian BandAddress: 705 Chief Neskonlith Dr., Chase

    How to reduce exposure to wildfire smoke

    The best way to reduce risk from the impacts of wildfire smoke is to reduce exposure, for example, by staying up to date on local and regional air-quality conditions, creating a clean-air space at home using commercial or DIY portable air cleaner or HVAC filtration system, keeping cool, reducing time outdoors, moving activities indoors and checking if your community has set up clean-air spaces for people to get a break from the smoke

    People at greater risk of serious health effects are encouraged to take extra precautions. For instance, people with chronic health conditions may want to review their management plans and ensure they have an adequate supply of medications. Parents and caregivers are asked to pay closer attention to infants and young children, while older adults and pregnant people are encouraged to take additional precautions during smoky periods

    Available resources

    People can visit public spaces, such as community centres and libraries, which tend to have cleaner, cooler indoor air. People are encouraged to check with their local government or First Nation for more information on clean-air locations in their community

    The Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) can reimburse communities for incremental costs associated with opening and running clean-air centres, as well as extending hours of operation of public spaces to help people reduce exposure to wildfire smoke

    People experiencing symptoms, such as shortness of breath, severe coughing, dizziness, chest pain or heart palpitations, should contact HealthLink BC at 8-1-1, speak with their health-care provider or seek medical attention. Call 9-1-1 for a medical emergency

    For more information about wildfire smoke, air quality and preparing for wildfire season, visit reHealth Canada

    Quick Facts:

    • Short-term smoke exposure can cause headaches, irritated eyes, sore throat, coughing and wheezing.
    • It can also worsen existing heart and lung conditions.
    • In the long-term, smoke exposure can contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and dementia.
    • Some people are at greater risk of serious acute health effects, including people with asthma, heart disease or diabetes, as well as people who are pregnant, infants, young children and older adults.

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