Wildfires (for Health Professionals)

Wildfires expose children to environmental hazards, e.g., fire, smoke, psychological stress, and the byproducts of combustion of wood, plastics, and other chemicals released from burning structures and furnishings. Children are in a critical period of development when toxic exposures can have profound negative effects, and their exploratory behavior often places them in direct contact with materials that adults would avoid.

Wildfire smoke can persist for days or even months, depending on the extent of the wildfire. Symptoms of wildfire smoke inhalation can include:

• coughing,
• wheezing,
• difficulty breathing and chest tightness,
• respiratory tract and eye burning,
• chest pain,
• dizziness or lightheadedness.

Air pollution from wildfires can exacerbate asthma symptoms and trigger attacks. Even children without asthma could experience respiratory symptoms, resulting in school absences and other limitations of normal childhood activities.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) partnered with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop an online course, Wildfire Smoke and Your Patients’ Heath. This course updates participants about the health effects associated with wildfire smoke and actions for people to take before and during a wildfire to reduce exposure. This course is intended for physicians, registered nurses, and others involved in clinical or health education.

Regional PEHSU Websites

• Region 9 Pediatric Environmental Health Unit: Wildfires and Children’s Health.
• Region 1 Pediatric Environmental Health Unit: Extreme Weather Disaster Preparedness Resources
• Region 2 Pediatric Environmental Health Unit: Outdoor Air Quality Prescription for Prevention

If you’re concerned about nearby wildfires, your regional Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit (PEHSU) has staff who can also talk with you about concerns over the health effects of wildfires.