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The Community News Service at the University of Vermont involves students working with professional editors to provide local news outlets with content at no charge. A recent study published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution warned of an increase in extreme wildfires globally, with Vermont potentially being affected in the future.
Vermont experienced the impact of wildfires last year when three million acres of Quebec forest burned, sending pollutants into the state. Officials urge Vermonters to pay attention and prepare for potential air quality issues as wildfires continue to intensify.
The Vermont Department of Health noted an increase in emergency room visits due to poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke, especially among individuals with respiratory conditions like COPD and asthma. Health impacts from wildfire smoke can range from mild symptoms like itchy eyes to severe conditions requiring emergency treatment.
To minimize exposure and health risks, officials recommend monitoring air quality alerts, wearing filtered masks during poor air quality periods, and creating buffers around homes to prevent fire spread. While Vermont may not experience massive wildfires, the changing climate and increasing dry periods create more potential for large fires in the future.
With the rise in wildfire frequency and intensity, it is crucial for Vermonters to stay informed, take precautions, and be prepared for potential impacts on air quality and respiratory health. By staying vigilant and proactive, communities can better protect themselves and mitigate the effects of wildfires in the region.
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Photo credit www.vermontpublic.org
