It’s been a wicked hot summer across Canada, and with it comes a growing concern: wildfires. As wildfires burn across the country, air quality has taken a serious hit, even in areas far from the flames.
So what does this mean for your health, and what precautions should you and your family be taking? Here’s what you need to know.
How Do Wildfires Start?
In Canada, wildfires are caused by:
Lightening
: the leading cause of wildfire ignition.
Human activity
: such as campfires, equipment sparks, and even arson.
But there’s a bigger force at play: climate change.
How Climate Change Is Making It Worse:
Hotter temperatures dry out vegetation, making it more flammable.
Drier conditions increase droughts, which fuel fire risk.
More lightning: Studies show rising lightning strikes may be sparking more fires.
Longer fire seasons, giving fires more time to grow and spread.
How Wildfires Affect Air Quality
When wildfires burn, they release smoke filled with harmful pollutants like:
- PM2.5 that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. (What are PM2.5s? – particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less containing a mixture of solid and liquid particles suspended in the air, including things like dust, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets.)
- Ozone
- Carbon Monoxide
- Volatile Organic Compounds (What are VOCs? – a group of chemicals that easily evaporate into the air at room temperature and are present in a large array of products, including cleaning supplies, paints, building materials, cosmetics and more. Examples of VOCs include Formaldehyde, Xylene, and Benzene.)
This smoke doesn’t just stay local, it can travel hundreds or even thousands of kilometres, impacting air quality across cities and provinces, and sometimes even other countries.
Health Risks from Wildfire Smoke
Poor air quality affects everyone, but some are more vulnerable than others.
Health Risks:
- Eye Irritation: burning, redness, itching and/or a gritty feeling. I’m some instances, can worsen existing eye conditions or cause more serious issues.
- Headaches: irritants in the smoke can trigger inflammation and potentially impact oxygen levels in the brain, leading to headaches.
- Respiratory Irritation: coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath.
- Cardiovascular Problems: increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Neurological Effects: long term exposure may increase risks for conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
High-Risk Groups:
- Infants & children
- Seniors (65+)
- Pregnant individuals
- People with chronic conditions (asthma, heart disease)
- Outdoor workers
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
1. Monitor the Air Quality
Check the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) daily in your area. You can find this on
Environment Canada’s website or through most weather apps.
2. Limit Outdoor Exposure
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity when air quality is poor.
- Reschedule or reduce sports and events.
- Pay attention to symptoms: eye irritation, coughing, headaches.
- Seek medical help for chest pain, severe coughing, or breathing difficulties.
3. Create a Clean Air Space Indoors
- Keep windows and doors closed.
- Use HEPA-filter air purifiers or high-quality HVAC filters.
- Stay cool! Don’t compromise on heat safety while avoiding smoke.
4. Wear Protection If You Go Outside
Use a well fitted N95 mask to filter out fine particles (PM2.5).
5. Check In On Vulnerable Neighbours and Loved Ones
Make sure those at high risk have access to clean air and support.
Staying informed and taking proactive steps can make a big difference in protecting your family’s health during wildfire season. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or outdoor worker, taking air quality seriously is an important part of first aid and personal safety in the world today.
