Lisa Miller Client Service Practice Leader View Bio

With warm and dry conditions and more than 400 active fires, Canada is on pace to have its worst year of wildfires yet. To date, the fires have burned over 9 million acres and have forced more than 100,000 individuals to evacuate. 

The smoke from wildfires has traveled quickly to many parts of the United States, producing poor air quality and an unhealthy environment.

As of June 7, 2023, air quality advisories are in effect for nearly 110 million Americans, affecting 18 states from New Hampshire to South Carolina. Experts urge high-risk individuals to stay inside to best protect themselves. 

Risks of Poor Air Quality

  • Wildfires can cause poor air quality due to smoke containing carbon monoxide and other dangerous chemicals entering the atmosphere.
  • Of particular concern is small particulate matter—particles in the air that are less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter—since they can be inhaled into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
  • Poor air quality from wildfire smoke can cause eye, nose, throat, and lung irritation and increased risk of respiratory infection.
  • For young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions, it can cause breathing difficulties.

How Individuals Can Protect Themselves

  • Individuals should look for guidance from federal, state, and local authorities. Those affected by the poor air quality due to wildfires should stay indoors as much as possible, with windows and doors closed, and check air quality alerts regularly. If individuals must go outside, they should wear a mask that can filter out particulate matter in the air.
  • People with respiratory-related conditions should monitor their conditions and seek medical attention if they are coughing, having trouble breathing, experiencing chest pain, or wheezing.
  •  Individuals should continue to monitor this situation and other wildfires that may be happening in or around the country.