Photo credit: iStock – Buenaventuramariano
Smoke from B.C.’s wildfires has moved in over Whistler, affecting the air quality in the resort.
As of the morning of Monday, August 21, the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) in Whistler is rated at a “5-Moderate Risk.” At a 5, the following are recommended:
- At risk population – Consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if you are experiencing symptoms.
- General population – No need to modify your usual outdoor activities unless you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.
The AQHI is forecast to worsen to a rating of 6 later on Monday, but improve heading into Tuesday.
It’s important to know where to find the information you need when air quality is affected. The following are some resources and websites that can help keep you informed on air quality and smoke in Whistler:
- Details on AQHI, hourly air quality readings, related health messages, and a list of regions with the latest ratings, can be found here: Air Quality Health Index – Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)
- To go directly to the Whistler AQHI rating: Whistler – Air Quality Health Index – Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)
- To see a map of provincial air quality data and AQHI: Air Quality Health Index – Latest air monitoring data map – BC Air Quality – Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)
- To see the smoke forecast page and up-to-date forecast information: Home – FireSmoke.ca
- For employers with questions about safe practices for their workers in smoky conditions: Wildfire Smoke: Frequently Asked Questions | WorkSafeBC
- In-depth information about the health effects of wildfire smoke from the BC Centre for Disease Control: Wildfire Smoke (bccdc.ca)
- Tips from the Government of B.C. on the best ways to stay safe from the impacts of wildfire smoke: Poor air quality from wildfires increases health risks to vulnerable people | BC Gov News
- To understand the RMOW’s work to support air quality: Air quality | Resort Municipality of Whistler
While Whistler is fortunate to not be directly affected by wildfires at this time, we would like to remind you of the importance of emergency preparedness. A key part of this is signing up for Whistler Alert, Whistler’s emergency notification service. Whistler Alert informs you by text, phone and email of emergencies that may impact you. Whistler Alert is available to both residents and visitors. To sign up: Whistler Alert | Resort Municipality of Whistler
