Wildfire Resources

Photo by Sean Stratton

Fraser Health has produced online resources to help protect the health of individuals and families.

Noting that wildfires are becoming more common and severe as our climate changes, Fraser Health has produced recommendations to take action before and during the smoky summer to fall season to protect you and your family’s health. Although wildfires are most common during the hottest, driest parts of the year, the risk can remain high in many parts of the province well into the cooler months.

Breathing in wildfire smoke can affect the lungs, heart and other organ systems. Amongst those who may be especially vulnerable are pregnant people, infants and young children, as well as the elderly, the homeless, outdoor workers, and those with chronic illnesses.

Common signs include sore throat, irritated eyes, runny nose, mild cough, coughing up thick, sticky phlegm, headaches, and wheezy breathing.

More severe signs, indicating a need for medical help, include shortness of breath, severe cough, feeling dizzy, fast heartbeat, and chest pain.

A downloadable Factsheet on the Health Effects of Wildfire Smoke is available at this link.

Suggested preparations for wildfire season include:

  • Those with asthma should have an up-to-date asthma action plan:

    • A downloadable plan for adults is available at this link.

    • A downloadable plan for children is available at this link.

    • For those who use rescue medication (such as inhalers), have a supply ready before the wildfire smoke season starts

  • Prepare to have access to clean and cool air

    • A downloadable postcard is available at this link.

    • A downloadable poster is available at this link.

    • Purchase a portable air cleaner or make effective DIY air cleaners for those spaces where you spend the most time

    • Look into ways to keep your living space cool, such as purchasing a portable AC unit, installing a heat pump, or getting materials to cover windows to block heat.

    • Before summer, locate air-conditioned spaces in your community where you can spend time if your living space is too smoky or hot.

  • Be aware of the air quality, via a phone weather app, signing up for the Metro Vancouver mailing list or, in other parts of BC, the Air Quality Subscription Service , and by downloading the BC Wildfire Service app

A short video (1.5 minutes) featuring, Dr. Newhouse, medical health officer at Fraser Health, gives instructions on how to make a DIY air cleaner at this link.

The web page provides reminders of what to do when it is smoky, including:

  • Monitor the air quality

  • Spend time in clean and cool air spaces at home or in your community

  • For those with medical conditions, follow treatment plans and use rescue medication as needed

  • Pay attention to how you feel

  • Drink plenty of water

  • If you need to be outside, consider wearing a high efficiency mask

  • If you feel anxious and stressed, mental health supports are available, including HeretoHelp, the First Nations and Indigenous Crisis Line Society and BC Children's Hospital.

The website also includes a list of resources to find out more about wildfire smoke and actions you can take, including:

ResourcesJessica Campbell