Be aware of health risks due to wildfire smoke in Lake Country - Lake Country Calendar
Published 8:20 am Friday, August 7, 2026Wildfire smoke in Lake Country has spiked, leading Lake Country Health to send an alert to residents. Lake Country Health posted on Facebook on Thursday afternoon,. . .
Published 8:20 am Friday, August 7, 2026Wildfire smoke in Lake Country has spiked, leading Lake Country Health to send an alert to residents. Lake Country Health posted on Facebook on Thursday afternoon, warning residents and visitors about current Air Quality Health Index in the District of Lake Country and is considered to be a health risk. According to Lake Country Health, health effects of wildfire smoke include:• Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat;• Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness;• Worsening of asthma, COPD, or other lung/heart conditions;• Increased risk of more serious problems (especially for vulnerable people), such as heart strain or respiratory distress;Higher-risk groups include young children, seniors, pregnant people, those with existing heart or lung conditions, outdoor workers, and anyone doing strenuous activities outdoors. What people can do:• Limit or postpone outdoor activity if you notice symptoms (coughing, throat irritation, etc. );• Keep indoor air cleaner by closing windows, using air conditioning on recirculate mode, or running a HEPA air purifier if available;• If you must go outside, wear a properly fitted N95 (or equivalent) respirator mask;• Check the Air Quality Health Index regularly;• In B. C. , call 8-1-1 for non-emergency health advice;• Seek immediate medical attention (or call 9-1-1) for severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or dizziness. Lake Country Health said N95 masks will be available soon. “We will receive a shipment of N95 masks from the Canadian Red Cross on August 11. These will be distributed to people connected to our services, and to others as supplies last. More details to follow soon,” said Lake Country Health. This comes while multiple fires burn close to Lake Country, including the Bradley Creek wildfire near Vernon and the Quilpituk Creek wildfire near West Kelowna. “Please take care of yourselves and check in on neighbours who may be more vulnerable. ”