What are the Health Effects of Wildfires?

Children who breathe in wildfire smoke can have chest pain and tightness; trouble breathing; wheezing; coughing; nose, throat, and eye burning; dizziness; or other symptoms. Children with asthma, allergies, or other chronic health conditions may have more trouble breathing when smoke or ash is present. Even children without asthma could experience respiratory symptoms, resulting in school absences and other limitations of normal childhood activities. Fires may leave large amounts of ash and dust contaminated with harmful chemicals such as asbestos, arsenic, and/or lead. Wildfire smoke can persist for days or even months, depending on the extent of the wildfire.