Blog

Jun 01, 2023

Wildfire smoke health risks: Should you wear a mask outdoors in Michigan?

The sun barely peeks through smoke from Canadian fires as seen from Reservoir

The sun barely peeks through smoke from Canadian fires as seen from Reservoir Park in Harrisburg, Pa., Jun. 7, 2023.Mark Pynes | pennlive.comMark Pynes | [email protected]

With smoke from the Canadian wildfires continuing to billow into Michigan, government agencies are again warning residents about the dangers of being outside when the air quality has been impacted as it has this week. And while Michigan hasn't been hit as bad as some areas in the Northeast, it is still possible for the smoke to cause health problems for those exposed to the air.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the smoke from these fires can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat. The smoke can also impact your respiratory system and harm those with ongoing heart and lung problems.

Related story: Air quality, smoke could get worse in Michigan Friday as fires spread north of Lake Huron

Among the symptoms reported from exposure to wildfire smoke: headaches, fatigue, trouble breathing, chest pains, irritated eyes and increased coughing. Prolonged exposure to the smoke can have long-term health effects such as lung cancer and possible stroke.

Those most at risk include children, pregnant women, older people and those with lung diseases such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma or heart disease. If you fall into any of those categories, it is highly recommended that you takes steps to protect yourself if you have to go outside or expose yourself to potentially harmful air. For those without those conditions, you should also take precaution when going outside.

Among the steps you can take is to wear an N95 or P100 respirator mask that can reduce the amount of harmful particles you inhale. The paper or cloth masks that were popular during the COVID-19 pandemic are not recommended, as they do not provide protection from the small particles found in wildfire smoke, according to the CDC.

Other steps you can take to stay healthy:

Finally, if you have any concerns about how the air quality could impact you, contact your physician to inquire about any specific risks you may face.

READ MORE:

Millions in Michigan, eastern US breathing hazardous air from Canadian wildfire smoke

Why isn't Michigan in drought since it hasn't rained in forever?

Garden Talk: How you should be watering your garden right now

If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation.