Wildfires are not only dangerous, they can also put you at risk for a number of health-related problems. Breathing in the smoke from these fires can cause an array of issues. This article will discuss what wildfire smoke is and why it's so dangerous. There will be information on how the dangers might differ depending on the age and health status of those exposed to it, as well as advice on what steps people should take to stay safe if they become affected by wildfire smoke.
Why is Wildfire Smoke Dangerous
Wildfire smoke is a dangerous combination of gasses and tiny particles that can be harmful to one's health. It's produced by burning any kind of biomass, and contains carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) explains that the health risks associated with wildfire smoke can depend on several factors, including the distance from a fire and the length of exposure to it. Most research on wildfire smoke has focused on its effects on adults living in areas that are close to wild fires. However, older people or those with asthma or other respiratory conditions may be more likely to become ill from exposure to wildfire smoke than younger people.
According to the EPA, the upper levels of smoke inhalation can actually cause a number of health problems, including chest pain, coughing, headaches and shortness of breath . Other signs that someone might be suffering from these health effects include nausea and dizziness. According to research from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), these risks are higher in children who may have a hard time getting enough oxygen.
A July 2011 report from NCBI examined the effect of wildfire smoke on children. The authors noted that some studies showed that young people were more likely to suffer cardiovascular problems, such as irregular heart beats, when exposed to wildfire smoke. They also stated that there was evidence that it could cause eye irritation and exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma.
Who is at the greatest risk?
1. people with heart disease or respiratory issues.
The EPA notes that people with heart disease or respiratory conditions like asthma might be especially vulnerable. According to a report from the American Lung Association, people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) might experience shortness of breath or coughing when they breathe in wildfire smoke. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that asthmatics might need an asthma inhaler, or even emergency treatment, if symptoms appear after breathing in a lot of wildfire smoke.
2. older adults
According to research from the NCBI, older people have a harder time clearing out the smoke from their lungs. This can make it harder for them to breathe.
3. children
The CDC notes that young children are also more likely to be affected by wildfire smoke than adults. According to research from NCBI, young children might have an even harder time clearing out the smoke from their lungs than older people because they're still growing and developing.
Steps to decrease your risk during a wildfire
1. Ensure to check the local air quality reports
According to the EPA, it's important to remind yourself of what areas are affected by wildfire smoke and to avoid those locations if breathing is difficult for you.
2. Take measures to prevent wildfire
The EPA recommends practicing ways to help prevent wildfires. You can do this by making sure that no flammable objects are in your yard or surrounding areas, or even on your property.
3. Stay out of the path of wildfires
If you find yourself in the path of a wildfire, take steps to leave the area as soon as possible. Avoid anything that might be on fire, such as vehicles and standing structures.
4. Follow healthcare guidelines and advice
If you have a condition that put you at greater risk for a complication from wildfire smoke, make sure to follow any healthcare recommendations and treatment advice you might be given.
5. Plan to take shelter indoors
If your home becomes trapped by wildfire smoke, make plans to take shelter somewhere else as soon as possible. Avoiding being trapped in your home can help prevent any potential issues that may arise from breathing in the smoke.
6. Keep emergency treatment handy
The EPA also suggests having a medicine kit ready or items like eye drops on hand to deal with any health problems that might arise as a result of breathing in wildfire smoke.
7. Check on neighbors
If wildfires threaten your neighborhood, take some time to visit your neighbors and help each other out.
8. Drink plenty of water
According to the CDC, drinking plenty of water can help keep smoke particles cleared out of your lungs so that you can breathe more easily.
