Poor air quality from wildfires increases health risks to vulnerable people
People throughout the province are reminded to stay safe from the impacts of poor air quality due to wildfire smoke and check on family and friends who may be at risk.
Those with pre-existing health conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, heart disease or diabetes, people with respiratory infections, pregnant people, infants and children, and older adults, are at greater risk of health impacts from wildfire smoke.
Some people are more likely to experience adverse health effects from smoke, especially those with respiratory conditions, such as asthma chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Those with heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease and older adults are also at higher risk. Pregnant people, infants, and children, should also take precautions to reduce smoke exposure.
Anyone who requires rescue medication, especially for respiratory conditions such as asthma, should ensure they have supplies on hand. If you have been evacuated, or do not have enough medication, visit your local pharmacy for an emergency supply.
The best way to stay safe from the impacts of wildfire smoke is to reduce exposure:
- Prevent wildfire smoke from entering your home by sealing doors and windows and keep them closed as long as the temperature indoors is comfortable.
- Learn ways to create an area in your home designated as having cleaner air by using a portable HEPA air filter or a DIY air cleaner using resources on the BCCDC website.
- Spend time indoors, such as shopping malls, community centres and libraries.
- Take it easy. Refrain from over exertion that causes heavy breathing and inhaling unnecessary smoke.
- Keep hydrated to help your body deal with inflammation caused by wildfire smoke.
- Consider wearing a respirator or other types of multi-layered face mask when you go outdoors.
- Know the forecast and use the smoky skies bulletins and air quality health index (AQHI) to evaluate local and regional air-quality conditions
Smoke can make it harder for your lungs to get oxygen to your blood. It can also irritate the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. Fine particulate matter in wildfire smoke matter carries the greatest risk to people’s health because it can be inhaled deep into the lungs and cause inflammation and irritation.
People respond differently to smoke. Most symptoms are relatively mild and can be managed without medical attention. If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain or discomfort, or severe cough, call 811 or contact a health-care provider. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
Learn More:
To learn about making DIY air cleaners and creating a cleaner air home, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/resource-gallery/Documents/Guidelines%20and%20Forms/Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/Health-Environment/BCCDC_WildFire_FactSheet_BoxFanAirFilters.pdf
To learn about the health effects of wildfire smoke, how to prepare for wildfire season, and more, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke
To learn about air-quality advisories, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air/air-quality/air-advisories
To learn about the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for your region, visit: https://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/bcairquality/data/aqhi-table.html