Wildfire smoke blankets Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley; here's how to protect your health
Air quality warnings remain in effect. Health officials say even short-term exposure can cause symptoms — check the AQHI hourly and know who faces highest risk.
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Wildfire smoke has blanketed parts of the B.C. Interior and is drifting toward the Lower Mainland, prompting air quality warnings from Metro Vancouver and Environment Canada that remain in effect for the region and the Fraser Valley. Additional warnings cover the Okanagan, Cariboo, Shuswap, Lower Nicola and the Fraser Canyon.
Health experts say even short-term smoke exposure can affect your health, particularly if air quality reaches high-risk levels. The easiest way to assess your risk is through B.C. environment ministry's Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), updated hourly and covering 25 communities across the province, or Metro Vancouver's AirMap for the Lower Mainland. The AQHI rates air quality on a scale of 1 to 10+: 1–3 is low risk, 4–6 is moderate, 7–10 is high, and 10+ is very high.
When air quality is low or moderate, most people can continue their daily routine unless they develop symptoms. Brandon Yau, a medical health officer with Vancouver Coastal Health, said: "Typically, for lower levels of poor air quality, we recommend members of the general public can continue their regular outdoor physical activities."
Some people face higher vulnerability, including those with lung or heart conditions, pregnant women, young children, adults aged 65 and older, and outdoor workers. Health experts recommend these groups reduce strenuous activity and monitor for symptoms like irritated eyes, runny or scratchy nose, sore throat, mild cough and headaches. More serious symptoms—wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain and worsening asthma—warrant immediate medical care or 911 if severe.
When air quality is poor, the best protection is spending time in cleaner indoor air. At home, keep windows and doors closed and use a HEPA air purifier if available. If you must be outdoors, a well-fitting N95, KN95 or KF94 mask provides the best protection from wildfire smoke particles. Ad hoc coverings like bandanas or shirts do not provide meaningful protection. Exposure to PM2.5—fine particulate matter 2.5 micrometres or smaller—has been linked to a wide range of health effects, particularly for people with heart or lung conditions.
The facts
What areas are currently under air quality warnings?
Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley are under air quality warnings from Metro Vancouver and Environment Canada. Additional warnings cover the Okanagan, Cariboo, Shuswap, Lower Nicola, and the Fraser Canyon.
How can I check air quality in my area?
B.C.'s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is updated hourly and covers 25 communities across the province. Metro Vancouver residents can also use Metro Vancouver's AirMap for the Lower Mainland.
Who faces the highest health risk from wildfire smoke?
People with lung or heart conditions, pregnant women, young children, adults aged 65 and older, and outdoor workers face higher vulnerability to wildfire smoke exposure.
What masks provide the best protection from wildfire smoke?
Well-fitting N95, KN95, or KF94 masks provide the best protection from wildfire smoke particles. Bandanas or shirts do not provide meaningful protection.
