Last updated on February 8th, 2024 at 04:57 pm
During wildfires, air quality drastically worsens due to smoke from burning materials and chemicals. Particulate matter, also known as PM2.5, can be deposited deep into the respiratory tract, inhibiting lung and cardiovascular function.
Additional health threats from wildfires include:
- Water quality changes (e.g., increased metal content) may make water unsafe for humans and animals.
- Urgently moving livestock and materials from disaster areas may put you and the animals in danger.
- Heat exposure may cause fatigue, dizziness, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion.
- Loss of homes, produce, and livestock can cause immense anxiety and stress, and can be extremely costly.
- Exposure to smoke can exacerbate illness and affect quality of life in susceptible populations.
View AgriSafe’s guide to protecting yourself against wildfire health threats.
Visit www.AirNow.gov from the US Environmental Protection Agency to check your local air quality index measures.
← Blog