Surviving the Smoke

Regional wildfires pose breathing hazard

Lions Bay residents woke up this morning to smoke-filled skies, with even the closest islands in the Sound invisible under the pall.

Wildfire smoke has been evident for days, but the density of the smoke has now prompted air quality warnings across the Lower Mainland.

According to IQAir, operators of the world’s largest air quality monitoring platform, on September 3, Vancouver has the worst air quality of any major city in the world.

Environment Canada advises Lower Mainland residents to limit time outdoors, and to consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

They suggest that vulnerable populations, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, and people with an existing illness or chronic health conditions may be more likely to be negatively impacted by the smoke and should consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor activities. They also recommend anyone experiencing symptoms related to the smoke seek medical attention.

The latest air quality warnings can be found HERE.

According to BC Wildfire Services, there are currently 155 fires burning province-wide, 57 of which are rated as 'out of control'. Lions Bay is situated in the Coastal Fire Centre of the province, where 16 of the 38 wildfires burning are out of control. In the region immediately around the Village (between here and just north of Whistler), five of the eight wildfires burning are out of control.

Environment Canada says the warnings are expected to extend over the next few days.

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