2023-06-05 21:52:24
What does smoke from fires contain and why is it dangerous?
It is made up of a mixture of several gases (sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide) and fine and ultrafine particles that are often invisible to the naked eye. Inhaling the gases is particularly dangerous near fires, where the particles can travel up to a thousand kilometres.
The particles are composed of burnt organic matter of very small size which can be deposited deep in the lungs or on the mucous membranes
explains Dr. Stéphane Perron, of the National Institute of Public Health of Quebec (INSPQ).
« In the coming days, in the Montreal region and in other regions of Quebec, it is really the presence of fine particles in the air that is worrying. »
When is smoke considered dangerous?
There is no exposure level safe
smoke-borne pollutants. It can therefore be harmful at low concentrations, particularly for people with heart and respiratory diseases.
« The air you breathe can be polluted, even if you don’t see or smell smoke. »
However, the health risks increase with the duration of exposure and the quantity of polluted air breathed in.
What are the main symptoms associated with exposure to wildfire smoke?
For people who don’t have significant health problems, we’re mostly talking about itchy and watery eyes, and irritation of the nose and throat
says Dr. Perron.
The smoke may cause headaches, dizziness and mild coughing. Air pollution can also trigger asthma attacks in some people
adds the doctor working at the INSPQ.
« This is particularly worrying for people with heart problems, for whom exposure to smoke can lead to a heart attack. »
The raging forest fires, in Abitibi and on the North Shore, in particular, are causing a deterioration in air quality as far as Montreal, where yellowish clouds covered the sky on Monday.
Who are the people most vulnerable to the effects of wildfire smoke?
Regardless of age, those most at risk are those with chronic conditions
, notes Dr. Stéphane Perron. Diabetics and people with heart or lung diseases (asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and heart failure) are thus the most susceptible to the harmful effects of smoke.
Young children and pregnant women are also at risk.
Those who work outdoors may also be more vulnerable, as they breathe deeper and faster. The same goes for people who practice physical activity outdoors.
At 2,405 square kilometres, the Donnie Creek wildfire is one of the largest in British Columbia history.
Photo : BC Wildfire Service
What if the air quality is not good in my area?
You must limit your outdoor activities and be on the lookout for messages from public health authorities
says Dr. Perron. When certain thresholds are exceeded, recommendations to stay indoors are issued.
« Avoid exposing yourself to smoke by staying in the house and closing the windows tightly. Also, the mechanical ventilation must be closed to prevent air exchange between the outside and the inside. »
Also, make sure to keep your pets indoors.
In the car, keep the windows closed and turn the ventilation on. air recycling
. Ensure the well-being of people at risk in your circle of acquaintances, especially those who live alone.
Montreal experienced a smog episode on Monday, June 5, 2023 due to active wildfires in various parts of the country.
Photo : Radio-Canada / Steve Rompré
Who measures air quality?
In Canada, the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is calculated from the concentrations of three atmospheric pollutants: ozone, nitrogen dioxide and fine particles (PM2.5).
These pollutants are considered the best indicators of health risks associated with the mixture of outdoor air pollutants.
The rating is represented by numbers from 1 to more than 10, which are grouped into categories according to the health risks:
- 1 to 3 = low risk
- 4 to 6 = moderate risk
- 7 to 10 = high risk
- Above 10 = very high risk
It is possible to follow the situation in your region by consulting the Government of Canada website. (New window) or by downloading the WeatherCAN app.
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