Statement from the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada: Wildfires and Extreme Heat Risks to Canadians

OTTAWA, ON, July 26, 2024 /CNW/ – Emergencies caused by severe weather are becoming more frequent and complex, both here in Canada and around the world. The wildfires situation in Jasper, Alberta, shows how quickly these events can escalate and their devasting impacts on individuals (both residents and visitors to the area), infrastructure and communities. Many other regions in Canada are also dealing with above-normal temperatures. These extreme weather events not only threaten the immediate health and safety of people in affected areas, but can also cause significant indirect and longer-term impacts on physical and mental health, including during and after community evacuations.  

During heavy smoke conditions as a result of wildfires, the impacts can be felt even hundreds or thousands of kilometres away from a fire zone. Everyone is at risk of health impacts from smoke, regardless of their age or health, but some populations are at greater risk. Those at greater risk include elders, people who work or exercise strenuously outdoors, pregnant people, young children, people with an existing or chronic health condition, and people facing other health inequities. Indigenous communities in northern and remote regions are also disproportionately affected, for some this includes experiencing multiple wildfire events and/or evacuations.

Protecting yourself from wildfire smoke

The behaviour of wildfires can be difficult to predict, including where smoke will spread or how much. However, there are measures you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Use the WeatherCAN app, listen for local air quality statements or check the information from local health authorities to stay informed about air quality, including the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), in your area or an area where you may be travelling.

Consider minimizing your exposure by limiting outdoor activities if the air quality is poor, especially if you are at higher risk for smoke related health impacts. If the AQHI is seven or higher, consider reducing the length or intensity of your outdoor activities or to reschedule during better weather conditions. If you must spend time outdoors, wearing a well-fitted NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator (KN95 or KF94) mask to reduce exposure to harmful fine particles from wildfire smoke.

If possible, protect the indoor air in your home by using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and/or using a certified portable air cleaner fitted to the room size. It is important that it can filter fine particles (e.g., HEPA filters).

Watch for common symptoms of smoke exposure, which include irritation of throat, nose, and eyes, coughing, and headaches. Seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing dizziness, chest pains, severe difficulty breathing or unexpected changes in speech or mobility, because these could indicate a more serious condition such as heart attack or stroke.

What to do in the case of extreme heat  

Extreme heat poses a serious health risk. Heat illnesses can lead to short- and long-term health problems and even death. When an extreme heat event occurs with wildfire smoke, you should first and foremost protect yourself from the heat. Prioritize keeping cool. If it is too warm to stay inside, contact your local authorities to find out the location of the nearest cooling spaces.

By using a multi-layered approach, including evaluating your health, you can reduce your risk from wildfire smoke and heat. It is important to stay informed, get hydrated and stay cool. Keep up to date with local weather forecasts for alerts, drink plenty of water, and stay cool by taking a combination of measures such as using your air conditioner if you have one, blocking the sun by closing curtains and blinds, and taking cool showers or baths. It is valuable to arrange regular check-ins those with mental illness or other chronic conditions and seniors, particularly if they live alone because the effects of heat can go unrecognised.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you witness someone with complete or partial loss of consciousness, who is confused, has a high body temperature, or has stopped sweating, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Evacuations

Evacuations due to fire risk and prolonged smoke exposure can impact our mental health. It’s not unusual to feel worried, sad or isolated during an emergency. Eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising indoors in a place with cleaner air, and staying in contact with family and friends can help.

Resources

You can find more information about:

wildfire smoke, air quality and health at canada.ca/wildfireshealth effects of extreme heat events at canada.ca/extremeheat Healthy Canadians podcast Deep breath, deep dive: Air quality and your healthIn addition, public health authorities can access the recently updated Wildfires in Canada: Toolkit for Public Health Authorities, which summarizes information and resources to support mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery for human health risks associated with wildfires.

If you’re having trouble coping, consider seeking help from a friend, family member, community leader, health care provider or visit Canada.ca/mental-health to learn about free mental health supports and services. A safe space to talk is also available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling or texting 9-8-8 to reach the Suicide Crisis Helpline, or by calling 1-855-242-3310 to reach the Hope for Wellness Helpline for Indigenous people across Canada.

During extreme weather events, help comes in many forms. I offer my gratitude to the firefighters who continue to fight the ongoing wildfires, first responders who are supporting those impacted, and the communities and community organizations providing shelter and support to evacuees.   

By staying informed and being prepared together, we will get through this season safely.

SOURCE Public Health Agency of Canada