Protecting Your Children from the Impact of Wildfires

As wildfires continue to burn in LA County, the resulting smoke is filling the air, making it harder – and more dangerous – to breathe. This polluted air poses serious health risks, especially for children whose lungs are still developing. Wildfire smoke is particularly hazardous, as it can be up to 10 times more harmful than regular polluted air due to the concentration of fine particles and toxic gases it contains. It is crucial for parents to understand the impact of wildfire smoke on air quality, its effects on children’s health, and how to mitigate these risks.

The Impact of Wildfire Smoke on Air Quality

Wildfires produce a thick layer of smoke containing tiny particles known as PM2.5 (particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers). These microscopic particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, posing significant health risks. The smoke also contains harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide and chemicals released from burning vegetation and buildings, which can irritate the lungs and exacerbate respiratory conditions.

In LA County, where wildfire events are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, air quality can deteriorate rapidly, affecting not only those near the fire but also communities miles away. 

Why Are Children More at Risk?

Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of wildfire smoke for several reasons:

• Developing Lungs: Children’s lungs and immune systems are still maturing, making them more susceptible to damage from pollutants.
• Faster Breathing: Children breathe more rapidly than adults, resulting in greater intake of air – and harmful particles – with each breath.
  Risks wildfire smoke poses to children include:
• Breathing problems: Smoke can make it harder for children to breathe and may cause coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
• Worsened Asthma or Allergies: Children with pre-existing respiratory conditions, like asthma or allergies, are at higher risk of severe symptoms. The smoke can trigger asthma attacks or exacerbate allergy symptoms, making it crucial for parents to be vigilant. 
• Long-Term Damage: Repeated exposure to polluted air during childhood can lead to weaker lungs as they grow older, increasing the risk of long-term respiratory issues and chronic illnesses.

Recognizing Smoke-Related Symptoms

Parents should be vigilant for the following symptoms in children exposed to smoky air:

• Frequent coughing or wheezing
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing.
• Complaints of a sore throat or stinging eyes 
• Unusual fatigue or tiredness
• A feeling of tightness in the chest

If any of these symptoms occur, especially in children with asthma or other respiratory conditions, it is important to seek medical advice promptly. Consider scheduling a 24/7 virtual urgent care visit for an assessment from the comfort of your home.

Steps Parents Can Take to Protect Their Kids

During periods of poor air quality, parents can take several steps to protect their children:

• Evacuate if You Are in a Danger Zone: If you live in an area with active wildfires or are in a designated evacuation zone, follow local authorities’ guidance and evacuate promptly. Ensure you have a plan in place to move your family to a safer location with better air quality.
• Keep Track of Fires Near You: Keep your family informed with the Emergency Alert System and NOAA Weather Radio for updates. Use tools like SmartAirLA and AirNow’s Fire and Smoke Map to track nearby fires, and always follow local authorities’ guidance for evacuation. 
• Stay Indoors as Much as Possible: Keep windows and doors closed. Use air conditioning with a recirculation setting to avoid bringing in outdoor air.
• Use an Air Purifier: A HEPA filter can significantly reduce indoor PM2.5 levels. Place air purifiers in the rooms where your family spends the most time.
• Check the Air Quality: Keep an eye on the Air Quality Index (AQI), which measures how clean or polluted the air is. The higher the number, the worse the air. Use your phone’s weather app or websites like AirNow.gov to see the current AQI in your area. 
  • What the Numbers mean:
    • 0-50: Good air quality.
    • 51-100: Moderate, caution for kids with health issues.
    • 101-150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups, like kids with asthma.
    • 151+: Unhealthy for everyone.
• Create a “Clean Air” Room: Designate a room in your home with sealed windows and doors and an air purifier. Avoid activities that produce indoor air pollution, such as cooking with a gas stove or burning candles.
• Avoid Outdoor Activities: Keep children indoors when the AQI is above 100. If outdoor activity is necessary, ensure they wear a well-fitted N95 or KN95 mask. Cloth masks do not provide adequate protection against smoke particles.
• Limit Other Pollutions: Refrain from smoking, burning wood, or using strong chemical cleaners indoors during periods of poor air quality.
• For Children with Asthma: 
  • Follow your child(ren’s) asthma action plan.
  • Carry your child(ren’s) albuterol inhaler at all times.
  • Contact your child’s physician if needed.

Supporting Children’s Health

In addition to protective measures, maintaining overall health is vital:

• Hydration: Encourage your child to drink plenty of water to keep their airways moist.
• Nutrient-Rich Foods: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce inflammation caused by smoke exposure.
• Monitor Well-Being: Pay attention to any signs of discomfort or illness and consult with your child’s healthcare provider if concerns arise.

While the current fires are an immediate concern, it’s important to know that repeated exposure to smoky air can have long-term effects on children’s health. By staying proactive in ensuring you’re taking safety steps to ensure your child is avoiding polluted air, it can help in ensuring long-term health. 

Resources for Families Affected by LA Wildfires 

For families in Los Angeles, the South Bay, and Long Beach, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital is here to offer support. The Long Beach Alliance for Children with Asthma (LBACA) is an integral part of Miller Children’s & Women’s Asthma Center, offering care that extends beyond the hospital walls. Parents of children with respiratory conditions can access valuable resources through LBACA’s website, which offers tools like the Fight Asthma Tracker, to help manage asthma during high-risk periods. LBACA is a community coalition that is dedicated to improving the lives of children with asthma in the greater Long Beach area, providing educational materials, tools for managing asthma, and community programs aimed at improving air quality and respiratory health for children.

Additionally, LBACA partners with SmartAirLA, which provides real-time air quality monitoring, alerts, and guidance on minimizing exposure to harmful air. SmartAirLA’s resources can help parents stay informed and make proactive decisions to protect their children’s health during wildfire events. 

By staying informed and proactive, parents can help protect their children from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke and ensure their long-term health and well-being.