Respiratory problems and wildfires: Learn to protect yourself

The smoke from wildfires is no ordinary smoke. It contains several harmful substances, including ozone, methane and other gases, such as sulphur dioxide and nitrogen. It also contains volatile organic compounds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), which are dangerous for your health.

Every wildfire is unique. In addition to tree residue and other natural biological compounds, smoke can also contain particles of burned structures, such as plastic, asbestos, rubber, paint, oils and various stored chemicals.

The most dangerous products are fine particles less than 2.5 microns in diameter, referred to as “PM2.5”. [2] These solid particles are so small—24 times finer than a human hair—that they can penetrate the smallest blood vessels in the lungs, causing short- and long-term damage. PM2.5 are odourless and invisible to the naked eye. They are a health hazard, even in small quantities, and the risk increases with their level of concentration in the smoke.

The impact of wildfire smoke on health depends on a number of factors [3]:

• Duration of exposure
• Quantity of air inhaled, which can vary depending on whether you are at rest, working or doing intense physical activity
• Concentration of smoke in the air
• Composition of the smoke (smoke can contain only wood particles or additional substances such as other fuels)
• Level of PM2.5 particles
• Age and health condition

The Santé publique du Québec [4] has identified two major groups when it comes to smoke-related risks.

The first, persons at low risk, includes all people age 5 to 64 who are in good health.

The second group includes persons at high risk:

• Children under the age of 5
• Seniors over the age of 65
• Pregnant women
• People with lung problems (asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema)
• People with heart problems (congestive heart failure)
• People with diabetes

We have probably all been exposed to smoke, either from a campfire or a woodstove. The most common and least severe of the symptoms of exposure to smoke include [5]:

• mild cough
• mucus production
• irritation of the nose, sinuses, throat and eyes
• headache

More serious symptoms can also appear, and it may be necessary to consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

• dizziness
• wheezing
• chest pain
• severe cough
• asthma attack
• shortness of breath
• palpitations (irregular heartbeat)

In the most severe cases, exposure to smoke can lead to stroke and heart attack. In the case of pregnant women, there is a risk of slow fetal growth and low birth weight.

Health Canada estimates that, between 2013 and 2018, wildfires contributed to nearly 240 deaths a year as a result of short-term exposure, but to 10 times more deaths per year in the case of long-term exposure, not to mention their effect on asthma and heart and respiratory problems. [8]

According to a United Nations Environment Programme report, the frequency of wildfires is expected to increase by nearly 30% by 2050. [9] This trend worries public health experts, because wildfire smoke can be a veritable chemical cocktail whose impact on human health is still poorly understood. [10]

To protect yourself against the effects of smoke, you need to consider two key elements: your personal health and the air quality in your immediate environment.

• Do you have lung problems, such as asthma or chronic bronchitis, or other health issues?
• Are you over the age of 65 or are you responsible for a child under the age of 5?
• Do you suffer from diabetes or a diagnosed heart problem?
• Are you pregnant?
• Are you in a region where a wildfire and fine particle warning has been issued?

It’s easy to check the air quality in your province or even in certain major cities like Montreal.

The University of British Columbia’s “Cyclone” website provides a detailed map of air quality in every province. [6]

 Air quality is represented using the following colour code:

• Blue: good
• Yellow: dangerous for high-risk individuals
• Orange: bad for everyone
• Red: very bad
• Purple: dangerous 

The same colour code is now used by Santé publique du Québec to accompany their recommendations, in particular in mixed-use areas such as daycares, schools, day camps and private seniors’ residences. [4]

Follow the Canadian Lung Association’s main recommendations [7]:

1. Check your local air quality (or the air quality at your destination).
2. Stay inside.
3. Keep your windows, doors and fireplace dampers shut.
4. Prevent devices from bringing outdoor air into your home.
5. Wear an appropriate mask if you must go outside.
6. Keep your lung disease well managed.
7. Keep your Asthma Action Plan or COPD Action Plan updated.
8. Call Info-Santé by dialling 811 24/7 if you have any doubts about your health.
9. Be prepared!

Wildfires can cause widespread power outages. If you use vital medical equipment like oxygen therapy or a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine and there’s a risk that your power may go out, consider a generator or other alternative and portable source of power, such as a CPAP battery, to ensure the continuity of care.

If you have to go outside when the air quality is poor, and if you fear it might affect your lungs, wear an N95 respirator mask.

Fabric surgical masks and disposable masks do not block the particles in wildfire smoke. To be effective, N95 masks must be well adjusted; however, they often don’t work well for children or men with beards.

Managing your exposure to wildfire smoke is crucial for maintaining your health and that of your loved ones. By staying informed about the air quality and taking the necessary measures, you can reduce the associated risks.

Take care of yourself and your loved ones, and don’t forget that prevention and preparation are your best allies in facing growing environmental challenges.

If you need professional help, we’re here for you.

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