Dealing with smoke
Even climbing stairs or walking on the street can strain your lungs when forest fire smoke pushes air quality into the very risky area, as has been the case in Kelowna for the past few days.
When you need to go out in bad air, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk.
“With a highly filtering mask, like an N-95 mask. Maybe with some add-ons like over-the-counter eye drops or nasal sprays to wash away irritants. They know anything that can add a little extra benefit, ”said Zach Stevens, Pharmacy Manager at London Drugs on Harvey Ave.
People with respiratory or other health problems should limit their time outdoors as much as possible until air quality improves.
“If necessary, if it really bothers you, buy an air filter,” suggests Stevens.
“Finding a HEPA certified air filter can certainly improve the air quality in your home.”
“It’s also a good idea to change the oven filter as these things are overwhelmed by the increased smoke in the air,” he adds.
Gusty winds and mid-30s temperatures could worsen the effects of the smoke for the next few days, but cooler and clearer weather is forecast for Kelowna’s long weekend.
