As wildfires continue to devastate large areas across Canada, experts warn that the smoke produced poses significant health risks to affected populations. Dr. Angela Yao, senior scientist with the B.C. Centre for Disease Control’s environmental health services, says inhaling wildfire smoke places everyone at risk. She is particularly worried for communities that are experiencing severe smoke events. So far, more than two million hectares have burned this wildfire season, which usually lasts from May to September.
In our nation’s capital, the scenario has vastly changed. Wildfire smoke from Canada has surpassed the Atlantic Ocean and landed over parts of Europe. Environment Canada has warned of poor air quality in Edmonton and across most of northern Alberta. Catastrophically, residents are left grappling with fears about their health and safety.
Health Impacts of Wildfire Smoke
Dr. Yao wants to be very clear about one thing – irritation is the most likely symptom caused by wildfire smoke exposure. This inflammation can cause chronic respiratory problems, such as. These small particles and gases can penetrate deep into the lungs, resulting in inflammation.
“For people with chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic pulmonary heart disease, heart disease or diabetes, smoke can exacerbate their conditions,” – Angela Yao.
It has been substantially studied, finding strong evidence between exposure to wildfire smoke and adverse birth outcomes, such as birth weight. Infants who were prenatally exposed to smoke are at greater risk for developing ear infections. They are in turn found to be more vulnerable to lower respiratory infections in early infancy. This shockingly unacceptable data further emphasizes the need to protect our most sensitive and vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women and young children.
Dr. Yao points out that prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can make it challenging for individuals to remain indoors consistently.
“When there’s prolonged wildfire smoke, it is really hard to just stay indoors all the time,” – Yao.
Seeking Clean Air Solutions
Given all of the aforementioned risks, especially during wildfire events, improving indoor air quality is of utmost importance. Dr. Yao encourages residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves from health risks.
“Knowing the forecast and the air quality locally is going to be very crucial when we’re dealing with these kinds of events,” – Yao.
If your HVAC system serves an air cleaning function, Dr. Yao suggests ensuring that your filters are capable of removing smoke. If they don’t meet expectations, think about replacing them with more effective materials.
If the air quality indoors becomes unmanageable or extremely smoky, we highly recommend finding refuge in public spaces. Public community centers, libraries, and shopping malls become cooling spaces with cleaner and cooler air. In addition to recommending best practices, this guidance acts as an invaluable resource for individuals and families who are living with harmful air quality conditions indoors.
Evacuations and Widespread Impact
Wildfire smoke, like other forms of air pollution, poses deadly health threats. Thousands of residents in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba have been evacuated as the worst of the fire threatens their communities. So far, over 25,000 individuals have been forcibly evacuated from their homes as fires continue to spread at alarming speed.
Incredible satellite imagery reveals the reach of this year’s Canadian wildfire smoke. It has recently extended its reach to the Upper Midwest here in the United States. Such widespread impact leads to deep concern over the possible long-term effects such environmental disasters have on public health.
A recent investigation published in the American Chemical Society’s Environmental Science & Technology journal examined B.C. wildfire seasons from 2016 to 2019. This study highlights the ongoing threats that wildfires and their smoke pose.
