Protecting your health from wildfire smoke
May 9, 2023
Global Korean Post
Learn about wildfire smoke events, the effects of wildfire smoke on your health, and how to protect yourself.
Environment and natural resources informs that the best way to protect your health is to reduce your exposure to wildfire smoke.
Use care when spending time outdoors during a wildfire smoke event
Limit outdoor activities and strenuous physical activities as much as possible. If you have difficulty breathing, reduce your activities or stop altogether.
If you or members of your family spend time outdoors, learn how to check the local air quality conditions to determine whether it’s safe to be outdoors. Pay attention to:
- the air quality health index (AQHI)
- special air quality statements
- other indicators of smoke levels in your community
Check the AQHI for air quality conditions in your community. Look for breaks in the smoke to find opportunities to go outdoors. Reschedule your outdoor activities for a time when conditions are better.
If smoke is present for more than a few days, stay active when you can. Try finding a place with clean air to exercise indoors, for instance at the gym, the community centre or at home.
If you need to work outdoors, check with your provincial or territorial occupational health and safety organization or your local health authority. They can provide guidance on how to work safely outdoors during wildfire smoke events.
Have a plan for limiting exposure to wildfire smoke if you will be caring for children or participating in any outdoor events.
Ensure access to cool, clean air
Use your air conditioner. If available, set your HVAC system to recirculation mode when the outdoor air is poor, and bring in fresh air when the outdoor air has improved.
Limit the use of exhaust fans when you’re not cooking.
If you can’t maintain cool, clean air inside your home during a wildfire smoke event, be aware of locations in your community where you can find clean air and take a break from the smoke.
Safe places that typically have air conditioning and filtered air include:
- libraries
- shopping malls
- community centres
- cleaner air shelters
Contact your local health or emergency authorities to find the most up-to-date information about publicly accessible locations.
Wildfire smoke events and extreme heat can happen at the same time. During these times, if you can’t spend time in cooler and cleaner air, try these 3 protective measures:
- Drink lots of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Limit exercise and exertion that makes you sweat or breathe hard.
- Stay out of the sun, take cool showers, spray yourself with a water bottle, or wear an article of damp clothing to cool your body.
