BC Coroners Service issues safety bulletin for wildfire smoke after boy, 9, dies

The BC Coroners Service is issuing a public safety bulletin about wildfire smoke after the death of a nine-year-old boy.

In a news release, the service says it is investigating the death of Carter Vigh, whose passing was “related to an existing medical condition aggravated by wildfire smoke.”

In a post on Facebook, Amber Vigh shared the news of Carter’s death.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of our precious Carter Anthony Vigh,” the post reads.

“Carter will always be remembered for his contagious smile and laugh and always ensuring everyone felt special, loved, and welcomed into this life. Carter loved to play soccer and was the biggest cheerleader for his favorite hockey team the Wranglers. His love for cars, trucks, and motorcycles along with his extraordinary dance moves will never be forgotten.”

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Amber confirms that Carter faced challenges with asthma, and the service notes that wildfire smoke can be especially dangerous for people with pre-existing conditions.

“I know that you’re no longer dealing with asthma and can eat all the peanuts you want! I hope you play an epic soccer game in the sky baby, kick some ass,” Amber writes.

“I just hope we can raise awareness on the seriousness of asthma! We were so diligent with your asthma and watched so closely and you were so good about taking your puffer when you needed it. We want people to know how quickly things can change.”

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• Almost 80 evacuation orders, alerts across B.C. as wildfires burn

• Smoky skies for much of B.C. as 360 wildfires continue to burn

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During an unrelated news conference Monday, B.C. Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth called Carter’s death a “tragedy.”

“This is obviously a terrible, terrible tragedy and every parent’s worst nightmare, and our thoughts go to the family at this very, very heart-wrenching time,” he said.

“I know the coroner…will be doing a coroner’s report and doing a full investigation — that’s their role, and we will want to wait to see what comes out for that. I think it’s important, also, that during fire season…and we’ve seen some unprecedented fires, particularly in northern British Columbia that have generated significant amounts of smoke, to follow the advice of public health officials when it comes to air quality. It is monitored on a daily basis, and I think people need to pay attention to that.”

In cases of smoky weather, the BC Coroners Service recommends staying indoors with the windows closed, keeping windows closed when driving, and reducing time spent outside.

“As the province experiences greater impacts from the effects of climate change, British Columbians are learning more about the risks associated with wildfire smoke, extreme heat, and other environmental factors. This greater awareness can help us respond when risks are identified,” a news release reads.

It adds that locals are encouraged to use HEPA filtration and spend time in places with controlled air supplies like shopping malls or public libraries.

Remembering Carter

Amber says a celebration of life will be held on Saturday at the South Cariboo Recreation Centre in 100 Mile House. Attendants are being asked to wear their favourite sports jerseys in honour of the boy.

A GoFundMe has also been set up to help support the family, and Amber notes donations can be made there in lieu of flowers.

The fundraiser has already surpassed its $20,000 goal, as more than $30,000 had been raised as of Monday evening.

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With files from Michael Williams