When wildfires rage, the immediate threat is obvious, but smoke from the fires actually kills far more people than the flames. A recent study published in the journal Science Advances found that wildfire smoke likely contributed to over 52,000 premature deaths in California alone from 2008 to 2018, with an economic impact of over $430 billion.
Wildfire risk and severity have increased as the climate has changed, and more people have moved into wildland areas, increasing the risk of fires. The health risks from smoke pollution are also rising as fires become more frequent. Decades of research have shown that exposure to fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, can have serious long-term health effects.
PM2.5 is a mixture of tiny particles that can travel deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing short-term respiratory issues and contributing to chronic diseases like asthma and diabetes. Wildfire smoke contains a variety of toxic chemicals that can be more harmful to human health compared to other sources of PM2.5.
In years with high fire activity, wildfire smoke can contribute to thousands of premature deaths annually. The health impacts are not limited to rural areas where the fires occur, as smoke can travel hundreds or thousands of miles, affecting population centers as well.
To protect yourself from wildfire smoke, it is important to stay indoors on heavy smoke days, close windows, and use an air purifier with a HEPA filter if possible. Wearing a protective mask, avoiding outdoor exercise on smoky days, and staying informed about air quality levels are also important strategies.
Investing in forest management, wildland-urban interface management, and climate change mitigation can help reduce the frequency and severity of wildfires, leading to significant public health benefits. Adapting to increased smoke exposure by providing safe areas in public buildings is also crucial.
By following these tips and advocating for measures to reduce wildfire risk, individuals and communities can protect their health from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke. Stay informed, stay safe, and take proactive steps to safeguard your well-being during wildfire season.
