The blanket of smoke that covered the Okanagan over the long weekend has yet to be peeled back.

As commuter traffic got underway Tuesday residents of every point from Lumby to Penticton and Kamloops to Salmon Arm likely saw the grey haze from the fires smothering the region.

The Air Quality Health Index rating for the South, Central and North Okanagan was seven, which is considered a high risk to health.

The worst of it was in Kamloops, which has seen a rating of eight to start the week, but is expected to see the number to climb to a 10 in the day ahead.

The smoke may cause symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels.

Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits. Stay inside if you have breathing difficulties.

The Ministry of Health says area residents should find an indoor place that香蕉视频直播檚 cool and ventilated. Using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help.

If you open the windows you may let in more polluted air. If your home isn香蕉视频直播檛 air-conditioned, consider going to a public place (library, shopping mall, recreation centre) that is air-conditioned.

For more information on current air quality, see: Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.