METRO Vancouver Regional District has issued an Air Quality Bulletin due to thick smoke being released from a train trestle fire on the Fraser River near the Oak Street bridge, bordering Vancouver and Richmond.  The fire is expected to keep burning through Thursday night and into Friday.

Metro Vancouver issues Air Quality Bulletins to inform people about short-term air quality issues at a local level that are not widespread enough to trigger a broader Air Quality Advisory.

Metro Vancouver staff are at the site and liaising with Richmond Fire-Rescue. Metro Vancouver staff are monitoring air quality data being received from air quality monitoring stations located throughout the region.

Air Quality Bulletin in effect for:

• Metro Vancouver – Northwest
• Metro Vancouver – Southwest
• Metro Vancouver – Northeast
• Metro Vancouver – Southeast

Important information:

• If members of the public smell smoke in their area, they can move inside if they are outdoors, and close windows, doors, and air intakes to reduce their exposure to the odour.
• Monitor Your Symptoms: Seek medical care for symptoms like chest discomfort, shortness of breath, severe coughing or wheezing, and dizziness. Check on family, friends, and neighbours often, and call 9-1-1 in the case of an emergency.
• Check Air Quality Regularly: Monitor the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) rating nearest you at airmap.ca and gov.bc.ca/airqualitymap. Use the current health messages accompanying the rating to make decisions about your outdoor activities. Air quality can change throughout the day and by location so check the AQHI often. Sign up for Air Quality Advisory alerts and updates at metrovancouver.org/services/air-quality-climate-action/mailing-list