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| Wildfires can lead to poor air quality and affect people in nearby regions. |
Firefighters have been battling the blazes non-stop since the beginning of the week.
The scope of the damage may only become apparent over the next couple of days, but experts warn that there can be immediate and long-term health effects linked to wildfire smoke exposure.
Wildfire smoke poses a very serious health risk as 80 to 90% of wildfire smoke is within the fine particle range. These fine particles are generally less than 2.5 microns in diameter and can penetrate deep into the body.
An increase in this type of airborne particulate matter has been linked to numerous health problems including headaches, nausea, dizziness, respiratory problems, strokes and heart attacks.
Homeowners and facility managers in nearby regions should also take precautions. Smoke can travel far beyond the main burn zone and studies show that even a small increase in airborne fine particulate matter can affect overall health.
In fact, wildfire smoke can stay suspended for a long time, they can travel far and wide and may easily enter buildings.
In an EPA-led study, ERs saw a 66 percent increase in people complaining about heart and lung conditions such as asthma, heart failure, heart attacks and others while the wildfires were burning and for several days afterwards.
Related posts:
- Wildfires lead to busier ERs
- First wildfires, then flash floods? New Mexico officials worried
- Environmental fallout from wildfires and IAQ concerns
Contact Electrocorp for more information and indoor air treatment solutions.
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