Wildfire smoke is back: What you need to know to protect your health

Lions Gate Bridge and the Second Narrows Bridge as seen from Capitol Hill on Aug. 6, 2026 during an air quality warning in Metro Vancouver due to fires burning across the province. Photo by NICK PROCAYLO /PNG

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As wildfire smoke blankets parts of the B.C. Interior and drifts toward the Lower Mainland, hazy skies and smoky conditions are becoming a familiar part of summer.

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Health experts say even short-term exposure to wildfire smoke can affect your health, especially if air quality reaches high-risk levels.

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Metro Vancouver and Environment Canada have issued air quality warnings for Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley this week that remain in place. Warning are also in effect across parts of the province, including the Okanagan, Cariboo, Shuswap, Lower Nicola and the Fraser Canyon.

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Here’s what you need to know about protecting yourself from wildfire smoke.

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How do I assess my risk?

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The easiest way is to check B.C. environment ministry’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), which covers 25 communities across the province and is updated hourly, or Metro Vancouver’s AirMap, which also provides air quality readings for the Lower Mainland.

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The AQHI rates air quality on a scale of 1 to 10+:

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When air quality is in the low or moderate range, most people can go about their daily routine unless they develop symptoms.

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“Typically, for lower levels of poor air quality, we recommend members of the general public can continue their regular outdoor physical activities,” said Brandon Yau, a medical health officer with Vancouver Coastal Health.

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Downtown Vancouver enveloped in a smoky haze on Aug. 6, 2026 as smoke from B.C. wildfires drifts into the Lower Mainland. Photo by NICK PROCAYLO /PNG

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Who is at higher risk from wildfire smoke?

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Some people are more vulnerable to the effects of smoke, including: People with lung and heart and other chronic conditions, pregnant women, young children, adults aged 65 and older, and people who spend a lot of time outdoors, including outdoor workers, wildland firefighters, and those living in remote or rural areas.

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If you are in one of these groups, health experts recommend reducing strenuous outdoor activity and monitoring yourself for symptoms.

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Should kids be outside at playgrounds?

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Young children are more vulnerable to poor air quality, said Yau, who recommends parents and caregivers check their local air quality conditions before heading outdoors.

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Health guidelines say at low and moderate risk levels, there is no need to change outdoor activities.

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“It really is that individual decision,” said Yau. If it looks hazy and if there are local symptoms they are experiencing, it’s best to dial back on the outdoor activities.”

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Hazy sky seen over Boundary Road on August 4, 2026 as several wildfires burn out of control in B.C. Photo by NICK PROCAYLO

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What symptoms should I watch for?

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Mild symptoms can include irritated eyes, runny or scratchy nose, sore throat, mild cough and headaches, said Health Canada.

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These are signs that smoke is affecting you and that you should move to cleaner air.

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More serious symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain and worsening asthma symptoms.

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Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical care immediately or call 911 in an emergency.

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What should I do when air quality is poor?

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The best way to reduce exposure is to spend time in cleaner indoor air.