File photo (Image credit: CKPG).

By Aaron Schulze

Air Quality Advisory

Air quality advisories issued for Prince George and Quesnel

Feb 17, 2024 | 10:04 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — Residents in Prince George and area are being warned of high concentrations of fine particulate matter in the air.

Environment Canada and Northern Health issued air quality advisories for the Prince George and Cariboo north (including Quesnel) regions Saturday (Feb. 17) morning. The weather agency says the fine particulate matter is expected to persist until weather conditions change.

The City of Prince George’s Clean Air bylaw prohibits all open burning, including backyard and land clearing burning. During air quality advisories, the bylaw also prohibits recreational fires, wood-burning appliances and street sweeping activities. Local industry is also required to follow permit requirements that are triggered during air quality advisories and is asked to reduce emissions wherever possible.

As of publication, B.C.’s air quality health index forecasts a high risk today, a moderate risk tonight and during the day Sunday before going back to being a low risk Sunday night. Quesnel is forecast to have a moderate risk today and a low risk Sunday.

Exposure to fine particulate matter is particularly a concern for individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease and diabetes, along with respiratory infections such as COVID-19. Pregnant women, infants and older adults are also at risk.

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Anyone with chronic underlying medical conditions or acute infections is encouraged to postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as eye or throat irritation, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing should follow the advice of their health care provider.