Langley urges residents to stay indoors as wildfire smoke worsens

Langley City is advising residents to stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed when wildfire smoke levels are high, following a yellow air-quality alert for Langley and other Lower Mainland communities.

Metro Vancouver cited elevated fine particulate matter from wildfire smoke originating in the South Cariboo, the Southern Interior and fires near Boston Bar in the Fraser Canyon. It said a southerly flow moved smoke across much of the region before it mixed down to ground level overnight.

An orange warning, indicating a very high health risk, remains in effect for the Eastern Fraser Valley as outflow winds continue to bring higher smoke concentrations there.

Langley City recommends setting air conditioning to recirculate, using a HEPA purifier if available and considering a well-fitting N95 respirator when going outdoors. People with asthma, COPD or other respiratory conditions are advised to stay hydrated and keep medication readily available.

Residents are also encouraged to check on older adults, young children and others vulnerable to smoke. Cleaner Air Spaces are available at locations including Timms Community Centre and the City of Langley Library. More information is available at LangleyCity.ca/Air.