The tragic death of a nine-year-old boy in British Columbia who suffered from asthma and had his condition worsened by wildfire smoke serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of poor air quality for individuals with underlying respiratory and cardiac conditions. According to experts, when the air is polluted with wildfire smoke, there is a noticeable increase in asthma attacks. Additionally, research has shown that wildfire smoke is associated with more hospital visits for individuals with other lung conditions, such as viral infections, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as heart attacks and strokes.
To protect yourself and your children from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke, here are some recommended actions:
1. Utilize the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) provided by Environment Canada. This online tool allows you to check the pollution level in your community. The index categorizes the risk level as follows: 1-3 (low risk), 4-6 (moderate risk), 7-10 (high risk), and over 10 (very high risk). However, it’s important to note that individuals with respiratory conditions may experience effects at lower levels than those who are healthy.
2. Stay indoors if the air quality is poor for you. Keeping windows closed and using an air purifier can help reduce exposure to harmful pollutants. When choosing an air purifier, look for one with a HEPA filter or a MERV rating of at least 13. If purchasing a purifier isn’t feasible, you can make one using a box fan, MERV 13-rated furnace filters, duct tape, and cardboard. Instructions can be found on platforms like YouTube.
3. Be mindful of heat risks. If you’re indoors without air conditioning, be cautious of overheating. Heat-related issues, such as heat exhaustion and stroke, can be serious and affect children more than adults. Additionally, heat itself can trigger asthma attacks. If it’s hot inside and the air quality outside is poor, consider going to a community cooling centre, shopping mall, or library.
4. Wear a mask when necessary. Masks can be useful in reducing harm when you need to be outside, such as walking to work or school. Surgical masks can filter out up to 20% of smoke and particulate matter, while well-fitting N95 respirators can filter up to 80%. They come in different sizes, including kids’, with options for ear loops or around-the-head elastics. While N95 masks offer the most protection, a surgical mask is still beneficial if it’s more comfortable.
5. Ensure that asthma is properly controlled. Individuals with asthma should have a supply of both “controller” medications, which are taken daily to prevent attacks, and “reliever” medications, which are used during exacerbations. Inhaled steroids are commonly found in controller medications, while bronchodilators, such as salbutamol (Ventolin), are used as relievers. It’s crucial to always carry reliever inhalers, just as someone with severe allergies carries an EpiPen. If there are any concerns about the condition, seeking medical attention is recommended.
It is essential to prioritize air quality and take necessary precautions, especially for individuals with respiratory and cardiac conditions. By following these guidelines, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from the adverse effects of poor air quality caused by wildfires.
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