PRINCE GEORGE

Wednesday, July 12, 2023 | 1:47 pm. Last update on July 20.

Ended.

—

A forest fire smoke event is currently hovering around the Central Interior and with that comes obvious health warnings associated to inhaling forest fire smoke.

Thick, tinge smoke moved into the Prince George region Tuesday evening around 8 pm and darkened the sky much earlier than a normal July evening.

According to Firesmoke.ca, the smoke is coming from fires burning west of Prince George and from the Quesnel region.

Canada Post has since suspended operations in Prince George for the day due to the smoke.

Smoke conditions will persist until at least Friday evening, which is not good news for anyone doing activities outdoors. As for those who are inside, the smell of smoke will make it’s way in, if it hasn’t already but we are used to it by now, right?!

Here’s a Tip – The best thing to do is to keep the windows and doors shut to limit the smoke from coming in. If you have an air purifier make sure the filter is clean and not clogged with dust. If the purifier has a black carbon pre-filter, make sure it is clean or replace it with a fresh one so the stale air can get through.

If you don’t have an air purifier and plan to purchase one make sure you match the room size with the appropriate purifier for efficient results. So don’t buy a small unit and expect it to clear out a living room. Sometimes one purifier isn’t enough so consider the room size first!

It is also good to look for a purifier that is HEPA filtration based. The HEPA filter can absorb many more odors than a unit that is not HEPA certified and the filter will last longer when used correctly. Units that have a black carbon pre-filter are amazing units and help remove even more dust, smoke and cooking odors from the air!

Unfortunately there is a con. When fire smoke is already affecting people, sales for air purifiers increase and the chance of getting one in store the time you need it become less than likely. Check around!!

Keep in mind that air purifiers will only work as good with help from you to keep the smoke levels down by avoiding opening doors and windows. Smoke will eventually make its way inside but at lower levels.