How dangerous is the wildfire smoke and heat combination that we are currently experiencing? My child is at a daycamp where they have outdoor activities. Does smoke like this trigger asthma (my brother has asthma)?

It’s generally dangerous when there are large amounts of fine particulate matter in the breathable air, such as with the wildfire smoke. It is especially dangerous for persons with underlying lung or heart problems to be exposed to these inhaled particles, as they can make the underlying condition worsen (e.g., trigger an asthmatic attack). The extreme heat is also dangerous because people may not be aware of their dehydration (because of extreme sweating) until too late. It is better to seek appropriate shelter indoors in places where both the air quality and temperature can be controlled.

 


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