Surviving the Smoky Aftermath of Wildfires

While wildfire season gives environmentalists and home owner's plenty to worry about, health officials are also concerned about the effects of smoky pollution.

During wildfires, tiny bits of soot, smoke and dust hang in the air and can lodge deep within the lungs. Smoke pollution levels in areas affected by wildfires may be high enough to pose a risk - even for healthy people.

While smoke exposure from wildfires may not cause long-lasting health problems, it's still important to pay attention to news reports on local air quality, especially if you have chronic lung problems or other health issues.

Protect your lungs
Even healthy people can suffer from a "fire cough" and breathing problems if they are exposed to too much smoke. In addition to harmful particulates, smoke from wildfires contains many toxic substances that should be avoided. Take these precautions if you are in an area affected by wildfires:

• Stay inside and keep your windows and doors closed. Keep children and pets inside as well.
• Avoid activity that makes you breathe harder. Don't exercise outside.
• Drink plenty of fluids to keep your throat and lungs moist.
• Use the air conditioner in your home and car. Set air conditioners to use "recirculated" or "recycled" air. Don't use systems that pull fresh air from outside. Replace the filters. If you don't have air conditioning in your home, go someplace where there is air conditioning.
• Use air filters/air cleaners if you have them, but make sure they are the right size and type for the room. Don't use ozone generators.
• Minimize other sources of air pollution in the house. Don't smoke, burn candles or use wood-burning stoves. Don't vacuum; it stirs up air particles.
• When health officials say it's safe, air out your house. During wildfires, there are often breaks when air quality improves temporarily.
• Don't rely on masks. Most over-the-counter dust masks don't provide enough protection. They may also give a false sense of security.

Tips for people with chronic diseases
Precautions are especially important for people with asthma, emphysema, heart disease and other chronic health problems. For these people, bad air from wildfires can bring on life-threatening breathing problems.

If you have asthma, emphysema, heart disease or other chronic health problems and are exposed to smoke from wildfires, watch for signs that your breathing might be getting worse, such as:

• Wheezing
• Increased shortness of breath
• Difficulty taking a full breath
• Lightheadedness

Call your doctor right away if you have any signs that your breathing problems are getting worse. Don't hesitate to call 9-1-1 if you have severe breathing problems or chest pressure, pain or tightness.

Related Articles Basic Information About Asthma Asthma in Children

External Sources American Lung Association, California fires - tips and resources. Accessed November 19, 2007. California Air Pollution Control Officer's Association. Smoke impact. Accessed October 25, 2007.

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