WEST KOOTENAYS, B.C – A new website that gives updates on air quality could prove useful ahead of next years fire season.

“Poor air quality poses health risks to people with chronic conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and it can particularly affect the elderly, pregnant women, infants and small children,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer in a news release.
“The new auto-alert function will allow easy access to the level of risk in your area, so you can take steps to protect your health and the health of your family.”

Smoky skies bulletins are specific to wildfire smoke, which can occur over large distances and change quickly. These bulletins are issued when areas of the province are being impacted or have reasonable potential to be impacted by wildfire smoke within 24 to 48 hours.

To subscribe to receive advisories, visit the website here.

The subscription service is expected to also be available through text starting next year.