NORTH ANDOVER – While it’s raining prediction for much of Massachusetts on Thursday, those on the North Shore and Merrimack Valley welcome help from the wildfire smoke That was tough for them this week.
Smoking is part of everyday life
“And suddenly it looked like Brigadoon,” said Pay Connolly, who went for a walk in North Andover. “You couldn’t see what was right in front of you. And the smell was intense.”
Remnants of forest fires burning across more than 500 hectares have become part of everyday life. North Andover Deputy Fire Chief Graham Rowe spoke to WBZ-TV at his command post as crews are working hard 12 hours a day.
“The men and women are… they’re tired,” Rowe said. “They have been here for a while and have worked very hard.”
Health risks
The health risks to firefighters are significant, but are felt even by members of the public who inhale smoke, especially those with pre-existing conditions.
“It can also affect people who are otherwise healthy,” says Dr. Sucharita Kher, a pulmonologist at Tufts Medical Center. “Exposure to wildfire odor can certainly cause irritation to the eyes, nose, sore throat and itchy eyes. So even if you’re otherwise healthy, I think exposure to fire odor can have effects.”
To take precautions against the smoke:
- Wear an N-95 mask
- Use an air purifier
- Do not leave the heating, air conditioning or fans on
- Keep windows closed
