The Conversation, Ryan W. Allen, Stephanie Cleland, "Wildfire smoke is an increasing threat to Canadians’ health"

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2023/09/01

2023/09/01

2023/09/25

post,environment,health,climate

• https://theconversation.com/wildfire-smoke-is-an-increasing-threat-to-canadians-health-211411

The pollution mixture and chemical composition of wildfire smoke is often different from the pollution emitted by other sources, and these differences may influence toxicity. The toxicity of wildfire smoke also depends on the type of vegetation and burning conditions and may change as the smoke “ages” in the atmosphere. This underscores the need to distinguish the health impacts of wildfire smoke from the impacts of other pollution sources.

• Comparison of Particulate Air Pollution From Different Emission Sources and Incident Dementia in the US
• Mutagenicity and Lung Toxicity of Smoldering vs. Flaming Emissions from Various Biomass Fuels: Implications for Health Effects from Wildland Fires
• Aging Effects on the Toxicity Alteration of Different Types of Organic Aerosols: A Review

Smoke may also reduce attention measured on cognitive tests and increase dementia risk.

• Short-Term Exposure to Wildfire Smoke and PM2.5 and Cognitive Performance in a Brain-Training Game: A Longitudinal Study of U.S. Adults

Correctly sized portable HEPA filter air cleaners can reduce indoor PM2.5 by as much as 80 per cent. And well-fitting N95 respirators (or comparable respirators designed and certified for occupational use) can reduce PM2.5 exposure when outdoors or in transit. The Air Quality Health Index and smoke forecasts can help Canadians decide when these strategies are needed.

• Improving indoor air quality, health and performance within environments where people live, travel, learn and work
• Individual- and Household-Level Interventions to Reduce Air Pollution Exposures and Health Risks: a Review of the Recent Literature
• Canada - Air Quality Health Index
• Canada’s Wildfire Smoke Prediction System (FireWork)

Government and public health agencies can help to offset some of these limitations and ensure more equal protection from smoke by providing accessible and clear messages to the public and establishing clean air shelters in libraries, schools and other public buildings.

Maybe they can, but how often will they?

• Public Health Messaging for Wildfire Smoke: Cast a Wide Net
• Wildfire Smoke: A Guide for Public Health Officials