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Forest Fires and Lung Health Fact Sheet

Forest fires are often a concern in Saskatchewan, especially during dry, hot summers. People all over Saskatchewan may be affected by the smoke from forest fires. The Lung Association of Saskatchewan urges those with breathing problems such as asthma and COPD to monitor their breathing and exposure to this smoke. If problems develop, refer to your action plan or call your health care provider.

What type of health effects can be caused by forest fire smoke?

For someone without lung problems, wood smoke can:
  • irritate eyes, lungs, throat and sinuses
  • increase the risk of heart attacks
  • trigger headaches and allergies
  • reduce lung function, especially in children

For someone with lung problems, wood smoke can cause all of the above sooner and it can:
  • trigger asthma attacks
  • worsen COPD
  • worsen pneumonia

** Symptoms of worsening lung problems include increased cough, chest discomfort, wheeze and shortness of breath.

What can you do to prevent problems when there is wood smoke in the air?

General recommendations:

  • Remain indoors.
  • Keep doors, windows and fireplace dampers shut.
  • Use air conditioners on the recirculation setting so outside air will not be moved inside.
  • Refrain from exercising outdoors.
  • Take extra precaution with children, who are more susceptible to smoke because their breathing systems are still developing and they breathe in more air (and therefore more smoke) than adults.
  • Older adults are more likely to have heart or lung disease, which can make them more susceptible to smoke. Extra precaution should also be taken during forest fire season.
  • Keep your windows and vents closed while driving. Again, only use air conditioning in the "recirculate" setting.
  • Pay attention to air quality reports on the local news channel or websites.

Remember: dust masks will not protect your lungs from the fine particles in smoke.
People with lung problems should also:
  • Always keep their lung disease well-managed and under good control before forest fires can cause a problem.
  • Follow their action plan developed with their physician.
  • Do not hesitate to take your rescue medication when you need it.
  • Talk to your doctor ahead of the forest fire season to know what to do before there is a problem. Ask for an action plan if you do not already have one.
  • People using home oxygen should not make any changes to the oxygen - call your doctor if you have questions or concerns.
  • If breathing symptoms are not relieved by the usual medicines, seek medical attention. Symptoms to watch for include: increased wheeze, cough, shortness of breath, and chest heaviness.

If you live in an area that you might need to evacuate due to forest fires or wild fires, be prepared. Pack an emergency kit which includes extra medications.

 

For more information please contact the Lung Association of Saskatchewan to speak with one of our certified respiratory educators:
306-343-9511 or toll-free: 888-566-LUNG (5864)

Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a rating system that helps you understand what the air quality around you means to your health.

References:

American Lung Association. (July 2, 2008). Forest Fires and Respiratory Health Fact Sheet. http://www.lungusa.org/healthy-air/outdoor/protecting-your-health/what-makes-air-unhealthy/forest-fires-respiratory-health-fact-sheet.html

United States Environmental Protection Agency. (July 2, 2008). How smoke from fires can affect your health. http://www.epa.gov/airnow//smoke/Smoke2003final.pdf