COVID-19: B.C. government preps for added risks of wildfire season
28 March 2020
Published by https://www.thewhig.com
CANADA – B.C. wildfire fighters could face a battle on two fronts this summer as there’s likely to be some forest fire activity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Research has revealed poor air quality increases susceptibility to respiratory viral infections by hampering immune function, while also increasing the severity of the disease. During the 2003 SARS outbreak, the risk of death doubled for people exposed to elevated levels of air pollution.
“Absolutely I’m concerned about (pollution from) wildfires,” said Dr. Christopher Carlsten, a professor of respiratory medicine at the University of B.C. “Every year, even before COVID, this is an issue.”
While the 2019 fire season was relatively mild compared to the previous two years, predicting conditions this summer is an inexact science, said Jody Lucius, superintendent of communications and engagement for the B.C. Wildfire Service.
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“Long-term forecasts and snow pack may give some indication, but what we can’t predict are the short-term events. Lightning, wind — factors that play heavily into what a wildfire season will look like.”
Wildfire activity in B.C. is currently “very low,” according to a statement from the B.C. Wildfire Service. Alberta is reporting five wildfires, all under control as of Friday.
Lucius said staff members are focused on preparing for the upcoming fire season to ensure they are ready to respond, but also to put in place the proper health protocols for COVID-19, following advice from B.C. health authorities.
“We’re working hard to ensure it doesn’t limit our ability to respond,” said Lucius, adding the service is looking for innovative solutions to maintain physical distancing.
So far, they’ve cancelled all face-to-face meetings and are finding alternative ways to train fire crews. It’s also likely crews will do less field work this year, such as clearing downed trees from trails, and stick to work where the risks associated with COVID-19 are low.
Wildfire fighters are deemed an essential service, said Lucius. “We have a mandate to respond to wildfires when they occur and we will maintain that.”
A provincial aviation branch staffed by the B.C. Wildfire Service has been set up at the request of Emergency Management B.C. to ensure critical supply routes are maintained in remote areas of the province.
In Metro Vancouver, planning for the fire season has also begun, said Roger Quan, the regional district’s director of air quality and environment.
“Wildfire season is a source that could really complicate the pandemic,” he said.
Metro Vancouver is adding COVID-19 information to its public awareness campaigns and fire bulletins.
It is unclear what impact social distancing will have on human-caused fires. Many B.C. parks, including national and provincial parks and recreation areas, as well as campsites, have been closed because of the pandemic.
