A young boy named Roland Latimer, who is nine years old and resides in Gold River, B.C., deals with asthma and must monitor air quality daily before going outside. Due to his condition, which can be triggered by poor air quality like that from wildfire smoke, Roland often finds himself restricted indoors for safety. The installation of four air quality monitors in his village is part of the legacy left by Carter Vigh, a nine-year-old boy who tragically passed away from an asthma attack during the 2023 wildfire season.
Carter’s parents, Amber and James Vigh, have partnered with the B.C. Lung Foundation to establish Carter’s Project in honor of their son. This initiative aims to raise awareness about air quality and its significance in preventing health complications. The Vighs stress the importance of understanding air quality, especially in regions prone to wildfires, to avoid similar tragedies.
Wildfire smoke, containing harmful particles like PM2.5, can pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, seniors, and individuals with preexisting health conditions. Despite the devastating effects of the 2023 wildfire season, which resulted in numerous premature deaths globally, there is a growing concern that people have become apathetic towards air quality issues.
Through Carter’s Project, the B.C. Lung Foundation has distributed air quality monitors to schools and communities, including Gold River, 100 Mile House, and Dawson Creek, to educate individuals about monitoring and maintaining good air quality. The project emphasizes the need for proactive measures to address air quality concerns, highlighting the significance of early interventions to mitigate risks associated with poor air quality.
Efforts are being made to integrate air quality education into school curriculums to raise awareness among students about the impact of air pollution on health. The B.C. government has invested in ventilation projects in schools to improve indoor air quality, emphasizing the importance of a conducive environment for learning and overall well-being.
Chris Lam, the President of the B.C. Lung Foundation, advocates for normalizing conversations about air quality and empowering communities to monitor and improve their air quality. By engaging individuals in monitoring air quality and providing resources like DIY air cleaners, the foundation aims to instill a sense of responsibility towards maintaining clean air.
Medical experts like Melissa Lem stress the importance of taking proactive measures to protect against wildfire smoke risks, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions. The need for comprehensive education on air quality and its long-term effects is crucial to ensure public health and safety, with initiatives like Carter’s Project playing a vital role in raising awareness and promoting preventive actions.