As wildfires have become an almost routine part of summer in Canada, including here in Nova Scotia, it’s key to know how to protect yourself from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke.

Smoke knows no boundaries
Fire seasons worldwide are now longer and more severe, due to climate change and the warmer, drier conditions it generates. Nova Scotia is experiencing more “fire weather”: those hot, dry and windy days that allow fires to ignite and spread quickly.

Smoke from forest fires is a mix of gases and fine particles from burning trees and other plant material. Whether a fire is burning near your community or hundreds of kilometres away, the smoke can affect your health.

Know the symptoms
Dr. Rim Zayed is a medical officer of health who is based in Nova Scotia’s Western Zone. She says the health effects of wildfire smoke can sometimes mimic other health conditions.

“Wildfire smoke can irritate your eyes, nose and throat, causing coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, headaches or fatigue. Because these symptoms can resemble allergies, asthma or a summer cold, it’s important to pay attention to local air quality reports to know when smoke is affecting your area.”

Check air quality reports
The air quality in your community may be poor even if you can’t see or smell smoke. “Always check local air quality forecasts before you head outdoors and adjust your plans when smoke levels are high,” Dr. Zayed says. “Even if you feel well, reducing your exposure can help protect your health.”

Pay attention to local air quality advisories and alerts and consult the Nova Scotia Air Quality Health Index. This index measures and ranks the current level of outdoor air pollution in communities across the province, and can help you decide when it’s safe to be active outside.

People most at risk
People most vulnerable to wildfire smoke include young children, older adults, pregnant people, those who work or exercise outdoors, and individuals with heart or lung conditions such as asthma or COPD.

“If you have asthma or another chronic lung or heart condition, make sure you have your medications readily available and follow your care plan,” says Dr. Zayed.

“Seek medical attention promptly if you develop severe shortness of breath, chest pain or symptoms that are worsening despite reducing your exposure.”

Remember: During heavy smoke and wildfire conditions, even healthy people can experience symptoms.

Reduce time outdoors
If the air quality is poor in your area, spend as much time as possible indoors with windows and doors shut and use a portable high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) air filter, if available. If you must use an air conditioner, keep the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside.

Reduce your outdoor activities, including strenuous work, exercise and playtime. “If you must be outdoors for extended periods, consider wearing a well-fitting N95 respirator to reduce exposure to fine smoke particles,” Dr. Zayed says.

Respirator-style masks are designed to filter out the fine particles in wildfire smoke. Dust masks, such as the paper masks sold at hardware stores, only trap large particles like sawdust and will not protect your lungs from wildfire smoke.

Protect your mental health
Like any unexpected emergency, dealing with a wildfire smoke event can zap your resilience and strain your mental health, leaving you feeling stressed, worried, sad or isolated. Be sure to check in on family, friends and neighbours who may be struggling.

Don’t neglect your own needs. Try to prioritize eating well, getting sleep, exercising indoors in a space with cleaner air and staying in touch with friends. If you’re struggling to cope, don’t face it alone: Reach out to a friend, family member, community member or a healthcare provider for support.

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