"The air, the water, the soil — they are not a gift from our ancestors, but a loan from our children."
— Ancient Indigenous Proverb (often attributed to the Haida or Kenyan Kikuyu traditions)
This quote resonates on multiple levels: it emphasizes stewardship, the inter-generational duty to protect the environment, and the personal stakes of air quality in the age of climate-fueled wildfires.
2025 wildfire season 'especially devastating,' say federal ministers
Breathe Easy: A Canadian’s Guide to Surviving Wildfire Smoke in 2025
🌲🔥 As wildfires rage across the country and smoky skies become the new normal, protecting your lungs has never been more important.
From British Columbia to Quebec, the choking haze of wildfire smoke has become an unwelcome guest in our summer skies.
With this “new normal” comes a surge of concern from Canadians asking:
What are the health effects of wildfire smoke? And how can I protect myself and my family?
This practical guide—based on insights from Sarah Butson, CEO of the Canadian Lung Association, and top health sources—breaks it down simply: what to watch for, how to respond, and how to breathe easier this summer and beyond.
💨 What’s In Wildfire Smoke, and Why Is It Dangerous?
Wildfire smoke isn't just irritating—it’s toxic.
When trees, grass, homes, and plastics burn, they release a complex mix of pollutants.
The most dangerous among them is PM2.5, fine particulate matter less than 2.5 microns wide—about 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair.
Why it matters: PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation that affects your heart, brain, and lungs.
Short-term effects:
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Coughing
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Wheezing
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Headaches
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Shortness of breath
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Irritated eyes or throat
Long-term effects:
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Worsening of chronic lung diseases (asthma, COPD)
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Increased risk of heart attack or stroke
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Potential neurological and immune system damage
⚠️ “There is no safe level of wildfire smoke,” warns Butson.
📉 Know the Risk: Use the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)
Before you head out, check the AQHI, Canada’s official tool to gauge local air quality.
| AQHI Level | Health Risk | What You Should Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 | Low | No need to modify activities |
| 4–6 | Moderate | At-risk groups should limit strenuous outdoor exercise |
| 7–10+ | High to Very High | Stay indoors. Cancel or reschedule outdoor activities. |
Check it daily at:
👉 https://weather.gc.ca/airquality
🧍 Who’s Most at Risk?
Wildfire smoke affects everyone—but some groups are more vulnerable, including:
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People with asthma, COPD, or heart disease
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Children and infants (smaller lungs = higher exposure per breath)
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Seniors
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Pregnant people
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Outdoor workers
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Low-income households without access to clean indoor air
For those with existing lung issues, even moderate levels of smoke may be dangerous.
👃 “It can be a scary feeling to walk outside and feel like you can’t grab that oxygen,” says Butson.
🛡️ Top 10 Ways to Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke
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Stay Indoors When AQHI Is High
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Keep windows and doors closed.
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Run an air purifier with a HEPA filter.
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Use air conditioners in recirculation mode.
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Avoid Strenuous Outdoor Activity
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Postpone workouts, hikes, or sports if the air is hazy.
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Move activities indoors when possible.
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Wear an N95 Mask Outdoors
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Cloth and surgical masks won’t block PM2.5.
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Use a properly fitted N95 or KN95 when outside in smoky air.
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Create a Clean Air Room
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Use a portable air cleaner in one room.
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Close off vents and windows.
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Keep pets in this room, too.
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Monitor Symptoms
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Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or persistent cough? Seek medical advice.
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Keep a log if you have lung conditions.
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Keep Medications Updated
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Asthma or COPD? Have an action plan.
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Ensure you have refills and emergency inhalers ready.
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Check on Vulnerable Neighbours
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Especially the elderly, disabled, or those without A/C or HEPA filters.
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Avoid Indoor Pollution
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Skip candles, incense, wood stoves, or vacuuming without HEPA filters.
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Use DIY Air Purifiers if Needed
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Can’t afford an air purifier? Tape a HEPA furnace filter to a box fan—a proven low-cost solution.
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Stay Informed
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Sign up for local air quality alerts.
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Follow trusted sources like the Canadian Lung Association.
🏕️ Should I Send My Kid to Camp or Soccer Practice?
This is one of the toughest calls for parents.
If the AQHI is 7 or higher, consider keeping kids indoors—especially those with asthma. Even moderate risk (4–6) may justify caution for sensitive children.
“There might be one number for the general public, but if you know you’re at higher risk, take action at a lower number,” says Butson.
Talk to the organizers. Ask if they have:
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A clean indoor space as backup
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Air purifiers or masks available
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Cancelation plans for poor air days
📚 Resources for Canadians
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Canadian Lung Association Wildfire Smoke Guide
👉 https://www.lung.ca -
Air Quality Health Index
👉 https://weather.gc.ca/airquality -
Health Canada Smoke Exposure Tips
👉 https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/air-quality/health-effects-wildfire-smoke.html
🛠️ Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic—Prepare
Canada’s wildfire seasons are longer, hotter, and more dangerous than ever. While we can’t control the skies, we can control our response.
Take wildfire smoke seriously, but don’t let fear stop you from living your life. Be informed. Be equipped. Protect your lungs and those you love.
🫁 Because clean air is not a luxury—it’s your right.
Written with care for every Canadian trying to breathe easier in 2025. Share this guide with family, neighbours, and your community.
yours truly,
