Forest
Fires and Respiratory Health Fact Sheet
Wildfires are an ongoing
concern where there is dry, hot weather. During a wildfire,
people throughout the surrounding area may suffer the effects of forest
fire smoke. If you have respiratory problems such as asthma, emphysema and
bronchitis or a chronic heart disease, we urge you to monitor your
breathing and exposure to airborne matter. If problems develop call your
physician immediately.
General
Recommendations
·
Stay indoors: People living in close
proximity to the fire-stricken areas should remain indoors and avoid inhalation
of smoke, ashes and particulate matter in the area.
·
Don't count on a dust mask: Ordinary
dust masks, designed to filter out large particles, will not help as they still
allow the more dangerous smaller particles to pass through. Special, more
expensive dust masks with true HEPA filters will filter out the damaging fine
particles, but are difficult for people with lung disease to use. Consult with
your physician before using a mask, especially if you have a lung disease.
·
Don't exercise outside: If you
live close to or in the surrounding area, it's recommended that you refrain
from exercising outdoors, especially if you smell smoke or notice eye or throat
irritation.
·
Take precautions for kids: Extra
precaution should be taken for children, who are more susceptible to smoke
because their respiratory systems are still developing and they breathe in more
air (and consequently more pollution) per pound of body mass than adults.
·
Roll up your car windows: When
driving your car in smoky areas, keep your windows and vents closed. Air
conditioning should only be operated in the "recirculate" setting.
·
Put air conditioners on recirculate: Stay
inside as much as possible, with doors, windows and fireplace dampers shut and
preferably with clean air circulating through air conditioners and air
cleaners. Use air conditioners on the recirculation setting so outside air will
not be moved into the room.
If You
Have Respiratory Problems or Chronic Heart Disease
·
Keep an eye on symptoms: Due to
the higher levels of pollutants in some areas, there is a possibility of
experiencing increased symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms, please try
to contact your physician. If you cannot, asthma patients can follow the asthma action plan developed
with their physician. Use your peak flow meter if prescribed. Do not hesitate
to take your medication, and avail yourself of the full spectrum of medications
your doctor has prescribed to you.
·
Check in with your doctor: People
with asthma should check with their physician regarding any changes in
medication that may be needed to cope with the smoky conditions.
·
Ask about your oxygen use: People
using oxygen should not adjust their levels of intake before consulting a
physician. (Call your doctor BEFORE you take any action.)
·
Know when to seek medical attention: If
pulmonary symptoms are not relieved by the usual medicines, seek medical attention.
Symptoms to watch for: wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty taking a full
breath, chest heaviness, light headedness, and dizziness. If you have any
concerns or questions please contact your physician.
·
Watch for breathing issues after exposure: If you
develop a persistent cough, or difficult or painful breathing, call your
physician. The onset of symptoms can appear as late as 24 to 48 hours after
exposure and that smoke can remain in areas for many days after the fires have
ended.
Clean Up
Residents and volunteers
should use caution during clean-up because the process involves ashes and
other particulates.
·
Avoid dust and soot: People
with lung or heart problems should avoid clean-up activities and areas where
dust or soot are present.
·
Reduce airborne particulates:
Thoroughly wet dusty and soot area prior to clean-up. This will help to reduce
the amount of particulates becoming airborne.
·
Cover your face: Wear an
appropriate dust mask during clean-up.
·
Do not disturb: If
exposure to asbestos or other hazardous materials are suspected, do not disturb
the area. Dust masks do not protect against asbestos.
External
Resources