How Wildfire Smoke Can Affect Your Health

How Wildfire Smoke Can Affect Your Health, Even From Thousands of Kilometres Away

When most people think about wildfires, they picture flames, heat, and danger close to the fire zone. However, one of the biggest health risks from wildfires can travel far beyond the fire itself. According to the Government of Canada, wildfire smoke can be carried thousands of kilometres from where a wildfire is burning, affecting air quality in communities both near and far from the source.

Wildfire smoke is made up of a complex mixture of gases and tiny particles released as forests, grasslands, and other vegetation burn. These particles can remain suspended in the atmosphere and be transported long distances by weather systems. As a result, people living hundreds or even thousands of kilometres away may experience hazy skies and poor air quality despite having no wildfire activity nearby.

Breathing wildfire smoke can have immediate effects on your health. Common symptoms include irritated eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, coughing, and shortness of breath. Even healthy individuals may notice discomfort during periods of heavy smoke exposure. People with existing health conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart disease, may be particularly vulnerable to worsening symptoms.

The Government of Canada notes that wildfire smoke has become an increasingly important air quality concern. With climate change contributing to more frequent wildfires and longer wildfire seasons, many Canadians can expect to experience smoke events more often in the future. Wildfire season typically runs from early April through October, although conditions can vary from year to year.

Fortunately, there are ways to stay informed and protect yourself. Canadians can monitor local air quality through the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), which rates health risk from 1 to 10+. The higher the number, the greater the potential health risk. Environment and Climate Change Canada regularly updates AQHI forecasts and issues air quality alerts when communities are affected by wildfire smoke.

During smoky conditions, consider reducing strenuous outdoor activities, especially if you experience symptoms. It is also a good idea to pay attention to local weather forecasts, air quality alerts, and guidance from public health officials. These resources can help you decide whether changes to your outdoor plans are necessary.

Wildfires may seem like a distant problem, but their smoke can have a very real impact on communities far away. Staying informed about air quality and taking simple precautions can help protect your health when wildfire smoke drifts into your region.

Check Your Local Air Quality

Before spending extended time outdoors during wildfire season, it’s a good idea to check the current air quality in your area. The Government of Canada’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) provides real-time air quality information and health risk ratings for communities across Canada. The higher the AQHI number, the greater the potential health risk from outdoor air pollution, including wildfire smoke.

You can also download the WeatherCAN app to receive air quality updates and notifications when conditions change in your area.