As wildfires continue across BC, our thoughts are with those directly affected and with the first responders supporting affected communities. BCIT would like to offer support and remind students of the resources available to them.
If you or your family members have been directly affected by the wildfires, you may be experiencing a range of emotions and practical challenges. You are not alone, and help is available.
Supports available
- Counselling and Student Development – Free and confidential mental health support, with in-person, video, and telephone appointment options.
- Early Assist – A confidential service where you can connect with staff who will help you access the right supports and resources.
- Here2Talk – Free, 24/7 mental health support and counselling for students via phone or online chat.
- Student Financial Aid and Awards – Assistance, through fee deferrals and emergency funding, for those experiencing financial distress and hardship.
Staying safe during poor air quality
Metro Vancouver Regional District has issued a yellow air quality warning due to wildfire smoke, expected to last for a few days or until a change in weather.
This air quality warning specifically indicates high concentrations of fine particulate matter. Ongoing inhalation of this particulate can cause respiratory irritation (e.g. discomfort, coughing, etc.), particularly when doing higher exertion activities outdoors. The poor air quality conditions can also have a bigger impact on those with health conditions such as lung diseases (e.g. COPD, asthma, etc.), heart disease, and diabetes.
If you are on a BCIT campus and experiencing impacts from the air quality:
- Please attend a BCIT First Aid office for your campus, or seek medical attention, if you are experiencing any symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, severe coughing or wheezing, and dizziness.
- Call BCIT Security (604-451-6856) for assistance, or call 911 in the event of an emergency.
Please take the following precautions while these advisories are in effect:
- Limit outdoor activities, particularly those that are higher exertion.
- Try to reschedule outdoor duties/activities, or consider alternates that are indoor and/or lower exertion.
- Notify your instructor if you have concerns regarding your health with respect to your activities at BCIT during this period of poor air quality.
- Drink plenty of water.
If outdoor activities cannot be avoided, wearing a well-fitted mask (e.g. N95, KN95, etc.) can help reduce the amount of small particulate inhaled. However, BCIT only recommends use of these respirators if students have been trained and fit tested, and only if the outdoor activities are strictly necessary.
We continue to monitor all campus environments to ensure they remain a safe and inclusive space for everyone. Thank you for your patience, cooperation, and understanding as we navigate this challenging time together.