CANADA, August 12 -
Summary
- Wildfire smoke exposure can affect health in the short term and the long term
- The best way to reduce short-term and long-term health risks from wildfire smoke is to reduce exposure – create a clean air space at home, avoid strenuous exercise, consider a well-fitted N95 mask
- People are encouraged to check with their local government or First Nation for more information about clean-air locations in their community
- Monitor symptoms, seek prompt medical attention for severe symptoms
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People throughout B.C. can take steps to reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke when air quality worsens.
Short-term smoke exposure can cause headaches, irritated eyes, sore throat, coughing and wheezing. It can also worsen existing heart and lung conditions. In the long term, smoke exposure can contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and dementia.
Some people are at greater risk of serious acute health effects, including people with asthma, heart disease or diabetes, as well as people who are pregnant, infants, young children and older adults.
How to reduce exposure to wildfire smoke
The best way to reduce risk from the impacts of wildfire smoke is to reduce exposure:
- Know the forecast for the area. Use the Air Quality Health Index (AGHI) or AQmap.ca to stay up to date on local and regional air-quality conditions.
- Create a clean-air space at home. Use commercial or do-it-yourself portable air cleaners or HVAC filtration systems with windows and doors closed, as long as it doesn’t get too hot.
- Keep cool. If temperatures are high and air quality is poor, be aware that heat poses a larger risk than smoke.
- Consider moving activities indoors and, where possible, spend time in cooler, indoor public spaces such as libraries, community centres or shopping malls.
- Check if your community has set up clean-air spaces for people to get a break from the smoke.
- Reduce the amount of time spent outdoors and avoid strenuous exercise.
- Consider wearing a well-fitted N95/KN95/KF94 respirator mask to filter air, if being outdoors is necessary.
- Outdoor workers should follow workplace guidance for working in wildfire smoke.
- Avoid activities that require a source of combustion, like smoking and vaping and lighting candles or a wood-burning stove.
People at greater risk of serious health effects are encouraged to take extra precautions. For instance, people with chronic health conditions may want to review their management plans and ensure they have an adequate supply of medications. Parents and caregivers are asked to pay closer attention to infants and young children, while older adults and pregnant people are encouraged to take additional precautions during smoky periods.
Available resources
People can visit public spaces such as community centres and libraries, which tend to have cleaner, cooler indoor air. People are encouraged to check with their local government or First Nation for more information about clean-air locations in their community.
The Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness can reimburse communities for incremental costs associated with opening and running clean-air centres, as well as extending hours of operation of public spaces to help people reduce exposure to wildfire smoke.
People experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, severe coughing, dizziness, chest pain or heart palpitations should contact HealthLink BC at 811, speak with their health-care provider or seek medical attention. Call 911 for a medical emergency.
For more information about wildfire smoke, air quality and preparing for wildfire season, visit resources from the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, HealthLink BC and Health Canada.
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