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As wildfires rage across Los Angeles, devastating thousands of structures and tragically claiming lives, residents are faced with a second, invisible threat: smoke and ash. These pollutants can cause serious health concerns, making it crucial to understand their impact and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What is Wildfire Smoke?
Wildfire smoke contains tiny particles, including PM2.5 (particles 2.5 micrometers or smaller), which are of particular concern. Due to their small size, PM2.5 particles can travel deep into the lungs and even reach other organs, causing long-term damage. According to Kent Pinkerton, director of the UC Davis Center for Health and Environment, “PM2.5 particles can be present in the environment for a long time and spread over long distances.”
Immediate Health Effects
Exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to a range of acute symptoms, such as:
- Irritation of the eyes and throat
- Coughing and sneezing
- Chest tightness and wheezing
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Excessive fatigue
These symptoms may subside once the smoke clears, but the health risks can linger long after.
Long-Term Health Risks
Recent studies show that long-term exposure to wildfire smoke may contribute to serious health issues, including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, preterm birth, and even lung and brain cancer. People with pre-existing conditions like heart or lung disease are especially vulnerable and may experience severe health events, such as heart attacks or strokes, during a wildfire. Children and infants are also at higher risk due to their developing respiratory systems.
Even healthy individuals are not immune. A UC Davis study found that during wildfire events, healthy volunteers had elevated levels of inflammatory markers in their blood, signaling an inflammatory response to smoke exposure.
Impact on Pets
Wildfire smoke isn’t just harmful to humans; companion animals, including dogs and cats, can also be affected. The American Veterinary Medical Association advises keeping pets indoors during smoky conditions to reduce their exposure to harmful pollutants.
Why Urban Wildfires Are More Toxic
Wildfires burning in urban areas, such as those in Los Angeles, present an even greater risk to public health. These fires often burn not just vegetation but also homes and structures, releasing a mix of toxic materials like plastics, metals, solvents, and pesticides. “When those burn, they create more toxic smoke and ash,” explained Anthony Wexler, director of the UC Davis Air Quality Research Center.
Protective Measures to Take
During smoky conditions, it’s vital to take protective measures:
- Wear a Mask: A well-fitting mask with good filtration, such as N95 or P100 masks, can provide significant protection. KN95 masks are also effective if N95 masks are unavailable.
- Stay Indoors: Avoid spending time outdoors during smoky or ashy conditions. Close all windows and doors to keep the smoke out.
- Air Purifiers: If possible, use air purifiers with HEPA filters to help clean indoor air. DIY air purifiers, like the Corsi-Rosenthal box, can also be an effective option.
- Avoid Strenuous Activity: Refrain from heavy exercise outdoors when the air quality is poor.
- Car Air Circulation: When traveling by car, use the air recirculation mode to minimize smoke exposure inside the vehicle.
- Ventilation: Run your HVAC system on recirculate and replace filters regularly to reduce smoke infiltration.
- Monitor Air Quality: Check real-time air quality levels using resources like AirNow or PurpleAir.
Extra Precautions for Children and Pets
While children over the age of two can wear masks, N95 masks do not come in children’s sizes. For younger children, KN95 masks are recommended. It’s also essential to keep pets indoors during these conditions to protect them from the harmful effects of smoke.
Health Tips to Follow:
- Check the Air Quality Index regularly.
- Avoid vacuuming or frying food, as this can worsen indoor air quality.
- Do not smoke or vape during smoky conditions, as this can further degrade air quality.
For more information, consult resources like the CDC’s wildfire smoke fact sheets or visit the California Air Resources Board’s “Smoke Ready California” program.
As wildfires continue to devastate communities, staying informed and taking proper precautions is critical to safeguarding your health and well-being during these hazardous conditions.
