The glowing red sun behind the haze was a good clue not all was normal in the sky over New Westminster this morning.
After a day of smoky, hazy air blanketing the city on Sunday, New Westminster hit a nine on the air quality health index scale this morning, putting residents at high risk. Vancouver is rated at 10-plus by Environment Canada, the highest possible risk measurement, and many regional monitoring stations are sitting at 10 or 11 this morning.
An air quality advisory is still in effect for all of Metro Vancouver thanks to the elevated levels of fine particulate matter in the air, stemming from the wildfire smoke that’s blanketing British Columbia.
Health Canada’s air quality health information says that those at risk – those with heart or lung problems or diabetes – should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors. Children and older adults should take it easy.
Those in the general population should also consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if they’re experiencing symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.
Anyone suffering physical symptoms should follow the advice of their health-care provider.
Seeking indoor, air-conditioned spaces is the best solution for anyone suffering effects from the air.
For up-to-date air quality health info, see www.airmap.ca.
