HC - Wildfires
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Wildfire Smoke & You
Much of Canada is at risk of wildfires, especially between the months of April and September. These wildfires significantly increase air pollution levels.
Even if you don't see or smell smoke
Even if you don’t see or smell smoke, you may still be at risk.
We all know that active forest fires pose an immediate risk to life and property close by, but did you know that the resulting smoke can be hazardous, even if you live kilometers away?
There is no “safe” level of exposure.
Wildfire smoke is a complex mixture of gas and particles that get deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Exposure to smoke, even at low levels, will impact your health. And as levels increase, so do your risks.
Protect yourself remove
Protect yourself and your family by recognizing the signs and symptoms of smoke exposure, and how to treat them.
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- recognize and change the activities that contribute to bad air quality in your home
- eliminate sources of pollution in and around your home
- improve ventilation.
Want to know more about indoor air quality and your health?
Connect with Environmental Health Protection staff at Health Canada, either by phone at 1-833-223-1014, or you can send an email to AIR@hc-sc.gc.ca.
Note that due to the volume of calls and emails most requests are responded to within one week.
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- recognize and change the activities that contribute to bad air quality in your home
- eliminate sources of pollution in and around your home
- improve ventilation.
During heavy smoke conditions
During heavy smoke conditions, everyone is at risk, regardless of age or health.
Some people are more likely to be impacted when exposed to wildfire smoke. This includes:
- seniors
- pregnant people
- people who smoke
- infants and young children
- Indigenous peoples
- people living in remote areas
- people with lower socio-economic status (SES)
- people who work outdoors, including wildland firefighters
- people involved in strenuous outdoor exercise
- people with an existing illness or chronic health conditions, such as: cancer, diabetes, lung or heart conditions
DELETETHIS
What can I do
It is difficult to predict wildfires
It is difficult to predict when wildfires will occur, how big they will be, and how much smoke they will generate.
If you live in a region at risk of wildfires, make a plan to be sure you and your loved ones will be safe if a fire hits your community.
Remember that wildfires can spread quickly. If your community is under threat, your local health or emergency authority will provide direction. If told to evacuate, do so.
For more information on topics related to wildfire smoke and health, and what to do in an emergency, visit www.canada.ca/wildfire-smoke
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What can I do?
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Protect yourself
Protect yourself and your family by recognizing the signs and symptoms of smoke exposure, and how to treat them.
Milder and more common symptoms of smoke exposure include:
- headaches
- a mild cough
- sore and watery eyes
- nose, throat and sinus irritation
You can typically manage these symptoms yourself, without medical intervention.
More serious but less common symptoms of smoke exposure include:
- dizziness
- chest pains
- severe cough
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- heart palpitations
Talk to a health care provider if you experience any of these symptoms.
Less commonly, exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to medical emergencies such as:
- stroke
- heart attack
- premature death
If you think you are having a medical emergency, dial 9-1-1 and seek immediate medical care.