The Ministry of Environment has issued a smoke advisory for the Sea to Sky Corridor due to forest fires - but the flames are nowhere near the area.
The raging and troublesome wildfires from the Interior of B.C. are to blame for the haze, according to Coastal Fire Centre's Mike McCully.
"Even here on Vancouver Island, it is very, very smoky and haze," he said.
"I can smell it - it's like I'm working on a fire right now."
McCully said Squamish residents have no need to fear fire at the immediate moment, however the air quality is a different story.
Over the next 24 hours, according to Brent Moore, head of the environmental quality section of the provincial environmental protection branch, locals should avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
Those experiencing any of the following symptoms should contact their health care provider: difficulty in breathing, chest pain or discomfort, and sudden onset of cough or irritation of airways.
Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, and lung or heart disease, according to Moore, and people with heart or lung conditions should reduce their levels of activity while air quality is poor.
They should watch for worsening of their symptoms, and if they sense trouble, should reduce their exposure to the smoke and contact their health care provider, walk-in clinic or emergency department for advice.
To speak to someone immediately about health concerns, contact HealthLink BC, available toll free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 8-1-1, or via the web at: www.healthlinkbc.ca/kbaltindex.asp
Forecasted weather conditions over the next few days are expected to reduce smoke concentrations to safer levels.
