[Illustration of a farmstead on fire, with hazards highlighted. The hazards are discussed below.]
[Logo: AgriSafe Network: Protecting the people who feed the world.]
Respiratory Distress
During wildfires, air quality becomes drastically worsened due to smoke from burning materials and chemicals. Particulate matter, also known as PM2.5, can be deposited deep into the respiratory tract, inhibiting lung and cardiovascular functions. [Simple illustration of wind.]
Prevention Tips
- Use only NIOSH approved N95 (or better) respirators that have been properly fitted.
- Keep children and seniors inside, if possible, as they are more affected by air pollution.
Fact Sheet
Wildfire Smoke Particulate Matter
Heat Illnesses
Disaster recovery is physically strenuous, especially in hot temperatures. Intense heat exposure can cause heat-related illness. Signs include:
- excessive thirst
- weakness
- headache
- loss of consciousness
- nausea and vomiting
- muscle cramps
- dizziness
[Simple illustration of the sun.]
Prevention Tips
- Take frequent rest/water breaks
- Wear light-colored clothing
- Use the buddy system to identify heat-related symptoms
- Rest in an air-conditioned area and hydrate
- Understand signs and symptoms
Fact Sheet
Heat Illness PDF with Chart of Illnesses
Text Equivalent of Heat Illness PDF
Stress
After a natural disaster, you’re dealing with the extra stress of current conditions, along with the daily stress of farm and ranch operations. Natural disasters such as wildfires create a tremendous amount of additional stress and anxiety. You may develop major depression, generalized anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder. [Simple illustration of the silhouette of a person’s head.]
Prevention Tips
- Be pro-active: recognize potential signs of stress, anxiety, or depression
- Know local resources where you can go for help
- Try to get adequate sleep (7-8 hours), critical to the recovery process
Fact Sheet
Text Equivalent of Mental Health Fact Sheet
Human and Animal
Livestock sensing wildfire danger can become irritated, leading to aggression and panic. Relocating livestock during stressful times should be carefully planned to limit injury by fleeing animals. Deceased livestock can host and spread zoonotic disease, so follow guidelines to prevent the spread of communicable disease. [Simple illustration of a cow.]
Prevention Tips
- Decide if animals can be sheltered or need relocation
- Plan relocation ahead of time to avoid stress and confusion
- Tag and free livestock as a last resort
- Follow state guidance on carcass removal
Fact Sheet
Wildfire and Livestock Zoonotic Disease
Water Quality
Water quality can be affected due to materials and chemicals being burned. Flame retardants, pesticides, and organic material can make ground water not suitable for human or animal use. [Simple illustration of a raindrop.]
Prevention Tips
- Sample and test water
- Conduct well and pump inspections
- Perform emergency disinfection of wells
- Follow health department drinking and water use advisories
Fact Sheet
At Risk Individuals
Wildfire smoke affecting air quality can be especially dangerous to certain populations. Older adults are more susceptible to lung and heart disease. Children with developing respiratory systems can become ill. Pregnant women exposed to smoke can result in adverse birth effects. [Simple illustration of a family of three.]
Prevention Tips
- Use only NIOSH approved N95 (or better) respirators that have been properly fitted
- Keep children and seniors inside, if possible, as they are more affected by air pollution
- Follow healthcare provider directions