smoke and air pollution, these other dangers of fires in Los Angeles

Authorities have warned of the dangers linked to smoke from Los Angeles fires. This pollution can have long-term consequences on health.

Vigilance is still required on the fire front around Los Angeles. The Californian city is preparing for a return of violent winds, threatening to fan the fires which have killed at least 24 people. On the health front, authorities have warned Los Angeles residents about smoke laden with toxic particles.

Janet is one of the people at risk. For a week, she has been wearing a blue mask: “I’m a senior, I have to be carefulshe specifies. In the morning, I see traces of smoke on my window, so I take care to wear a mask. I have some left since Covid, I never go out without it.”

Smoke from the fires is a mixture of fine particles, gases and water vapor, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Fine particles which can trigger several reactions such as “sore throat, headache, runny nose and difficulty breathing”lists Marco, a volunteer with an FFP2 mask on his nose, just like Oko who distributes food with him to the disaster victims. “My allergies are worse than usualhe explains. There’s something in the air. That worries me a little. It’s like an invisible but dangerous threat.”

These fires are unique, says Nate McDonald, safety officer at the California Forestry and Fire Protection Agency: “This is an urban interface incident in a wilderness environment. Many structures and vehicles were burned. This means potentially dangerous products. This poses a problem”he confides.

The Los Angeles County Health Department still advises limiting outings in areas affected by the fires.