In Aude, a murderous fire continues to ravage the Corbières massif. Despite an intensity now down, the fire traveled more than 16,000 hectares in 24 hours, caused the death of a person, several injured and mobilized an exceptional rescue device. Following this fire, how to protect yourself from toxic smoke? The emergency doctor Gérald Kierzek alerts health dangers and delivers his essential gestures to avoid serious respiratory risks.
Fire fumes and health impact according to Dr. Kierzek
Breathing these fumes is not trivial. “”Fires release toxic smoke, including fine particles, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons among others, which have immediate and long -term dangers for health, especially for vulnerable people“. This can cause eye irritation, throat, lungs, coughs, whistles, or worsen asthma or bronchitis. The inhalation of carbon monoxide can trigger headache, nausea, and”worse from heart disease“. In the long term, he warns against”alteration of lung function and an increase in the risk of cancer, especially because of benzene or dioxins“.
Vulnerable populations and alert signs
Everyone is concerned, but “Children, the elderly, pregnant women, as well as patients with COPD, asthma or heart failure are the most exposed“Explains Dr. Kierzek. Some symptoms impose a quick consultation:”Sensation of suffocation, chest pain, palpitations, confusion, dizziness, loss of balance or brutal aggravation of a chronic pathology“can testify to an poisoning or a severe inflammatory response.
Essential gestures to protect himself according to Dr. Kierzek
Confainment is essential provided you are well applied: “Close the windows and vents, use a damp cloth to plug air inlets, avoid the use of air conditioning and fans that suck up the air“. But if you are less than 500 m from the loss or already symptomatic,”evacuation is necessary“. In the event of an inevitable outing, wear an FFP2 mask and avoid any physical effort outside. Limit your trips, keep the closed parts, no outdoor sport or long unnecessary steps. If you live with vulnerable people, be even more vigilant.”Finally, only otherwise when the authorities announce an air again breathable“Concludes Dr. Kierzek.