The belated and inadequate response to the wildfire smoke in New York City is a reminder of the need to be better prepared for such events. Despite warnings, the city failed to provide clear guidance or access to resources in a timely manner. Vulnerable New Yorkers were left to manage on their own while public buildings, including libraries, were closed. While some schools did provide remote learning options, thousands of children were left in homes with unfiltered air. The advice to wear masks and use HEPA filters was difficult to implement as these items were in short supply. The longer-term health effects of such events are likely to be severe, including an increase in asthma and cancer.
The need for better planning and infrastructure to deal with smoke events is clear. Safe spaces where people can seek refuge from the smoke are essential, as are HEPA filters in public buildings and readily available masks in all sizes. As climate change continues to cause unpredictable and extreme weather events, it is more important than ever to be prepared for emergencies and to invest in renewable energy sources to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Without urgent action, our response to such events will continue to be too late and all wrong.
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