The smoke from Alberta’s wildfires spreads across Canadian provinces, casting a dark haze over the spring sky and polluting the once fresh air. The unexpected arrival of fire season brings concerns about the air quality in Fort McMurray, with the sun radiating an amber glow as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by wildfires.
Harold Larson, a former wildland firefighter who spent years battling Alberta’s ferocious blazes, now resides in Vancouver but remains connected to those on the front lines. Reflecting on his firefighting experiences, Larson acknowledges the risks associated with prolonged exposure to smoke, which takes a toll on the lungs and overall well-being.
The detrimental impact of air pollution on health is a growing concern, with over 20 percent of cardiovascular deaths attributed to it, according to a 2019 World Health Organization report. As global temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, there is a heightened apprehension that these statistics may worsen.
Dr. Stephen Wilton, a Calgary cardiologist and volunteer with the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, highlights the interplay between climate change, extreme weather events, air pollution, and their detrimental effects on human health. The alarming increase in preventable deaths and illnesses underscores the urgent need to address these interconnected issues.
As Fort McMurray faces the early onslaught of wildfires and the subsequent decline in air quality, the community and authorities must work together to mitigate the impact. Efforts to combat climate change, enhance firefighting capabilities, and implement effective air pollution control measures are vital in safeguarding the well-being of residents and the environment.
The situation serves as a poignant reminder of the immediate and long-term consequences of climate change and emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to protect public health and preserve the natural beauty of Fort McMurray.
It’s not surprising for those who have been raising concerns about climate-related health conditions for decades. Robert Sanford, the Global Water Futures Chair for Water and Climate Security at United Nations University, pointed out that back in 2003, when a heat wave claimed the lives of 70,000 people in Europe, projections indicated that if significant reductions in carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere were not achieved, similar extreme weather events would occur every two or three years by 2025. Now, in 2023, those projections are becoming a reality.
Sanford emphasized that what was expected to happen is now happening. Climate change is already here, and its impacts on our physical and mental health will persist for many years to come. The risks of disease and heat exhaustion are heightened, and the displacement and loss of homes also take a toll on mental well-being.
Recognizing the challenges faced by firefighters battling the fires, Harold Larson expressed empathy and support. He acknowledged the long and difficult road ahead for them but urged them to prioritize their safety and strive to maintain good health.