How does a wildfire impact humans?

How does a wildfire impact humans?

Wildfires have many acute and chronic effects on human health. They can cause respiratory and cardiovascular symptoms, burns, trauma, mental health effects, reproductive and immunological disorders, and a wide array of outcomes associated with social and financial disruption.

How do wildfires affect humans and animals?

Wildfire causes wildlife to move, avoiding flames and searching for new habitat. This migration can cause animals to wander into densely human populated areas and come into contact with humans they would normally avoid.

What are the main effects of wildfires?

Wildfires increase air pollution in surrounding areas and can affect regional air quality. The effects of smoke from wildfires can range from eye and respiratory tract irritation to more serious disorders, including reduced lung function, bronchitis, exacerbation of asthma and heart failure, and premature death.

What could impact wildfires have on humans?

Particles in wildfire smoke can enter your bloodstream and cause inflammation. People with lung conditions are most at risk. Smoke can exacerbate asthma, bronchitis and respiratory infections . It may cause increased incidence of heart disease . Wildfires can impact mental health, too.

What impact does wildfires have on human population?

A review of the published evidence shows that human health can be severely affected by wildfires. Certain populations are particularly vulnerable. Wood smoke has high levels of particulate matter and toxins. Respiratory morbidity predominates, but cardiovascular, ophthalmic and psychiatric problems can also result.

How can wildfires hurt people?

Wildfire smoke is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and other plant materials. This smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases.

How do forest fires affect humans?

Forest fires directly threaten nearby people and properties. Smoke from forest fires can affect many more people. Generally, everyone living in areas reached by smoke will be affected. Health problems are more likely in sensitive groups, such as people with existing heart or lung problems, children, and the elderly.