Wildfire Smoke & Heat: Protecting Your Health

The Government of New Brunswick has issued a reminder that smoke from active wildfires is expected to impact air quality in parts of the province this week. A heat alert is also in effect, which can make the effects of smoke worse—especially for vulnerable people such as children, elders, pregnant people, and those with existing health conditions.

How smoke can affect you:
Wildfire smoke contains fine particles and harmful gases that can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, cause coughing or shortness of breath, and worsen conditions like asthma or heart disease. Combined with heat, these symptoms can appear faster and feel more severe.

What you can do:

• Pay attention to your symptoms and take breaks from activity if you feel unwell.

• Reduce strenuous physical activity outdoors.

• Limit time spent outside when air quality is poor.

• Keep windows closed and turn off air exchangers to prevent smoke from entering your home.

• Consider visiting public spaces with air conditioning and filtered air. Cooling centres may open in some communities during heat alerts.

• Check local air quality: NB Weather – Air Quality Index

• Read more health precautions: Government of NB – Air Quality

When to seek help:
If you are having difficulty breathing or feel chest discomfort, call Tele-Care 811 or your physician. If symptoms are severe, call 911 immediately.

By staying alert and taking precautions, we can reduce health risks and keep our community safe during wildfire and heat events.