The recent devastating wildfire in Hawaii reminds us of the dangers involved. It isn’t only the fire itself, but smoke also kills.
Smoke can hurt eyes, irritate the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart (e.g., heart failure) and lung diseases (e.g., COPD and asthma).
Children are at higher risk because their airways are still developing, they inhale more air per pound of body weight, and they tend to spend more time outdoors.
Pregnant women need to be extra cautious because physical changes during pregnancy (e.g., higher breathing rate) puts them at risk of their baby having a preterm birth or low birth weight.
Recommendations from the CDC to limit these risks include evacuating from an area with smoke, checking regularly for air quality reports, and follow instructions from local officials.
Do not rely on dust masks for protection. They only trap large particles such as sawdust and not the fine particles found in smoke.
If you stay indoors, you need to keep inside air as clean as possible. Keep windows and doors shut. Use your air conditioner but keep the fresh-air intake closed and be sure the filter is clean. if you don’t have an air conditioner, and it is too hot inside, go to a shelter.
Don’t increase indoor air particles by burning candles, using a fireplace, or gas stoves. Do not use a vacuum cleaner because they stir particles into the air.
If you have trouble breathing, consider evacuating. If pregnant, continue your prenatal care (e.g., prenatal vitamins), and find out where to go if your OB’s office is closed.
If you go into labor, call your doctor or 911. If you are in labor, go to a hospital if it is safe.
After the smoke has cleared, keep in mind that you can be exposed to ash and other products that could cause health problems. Learn how to clean up safely.
This information was taken from the CDC online site about Wildfire Smoke from May 2023.
Peter M. Hartmann, MD
Family Medicine & Psychiatry
