Crew smoke exposure

Smoke exposure to crew members

Prescribed fires can expose burners to large volumes of smoke. Because of this potential exposure, crew members should be aware of the health hazards associated with smoke on prescribed burns. Prescribed burners are required to spend considerable time on the downwind side of the burn unit because this is the area most susceptible to slopovers and spot fires. Unfortunately, this is also the area where smoke is concentrated. Personnel should minimize their time in this zone by frequently rotating jobs and by staying on the edge of this zone when possible.

Smoke from a fire is basically a suspension of fine particulates. Toxic fire gases can condense on these particles and enter the lungs. Small particles can reach deep into the lungs where they can do the most damage. The longer the exposure to smoke, the more damage can occur. Shortness of breath, coughing and nausea are signs of smoke inhalation.

The best precaution for these hazards is to stay out of the smoke as much as possible. In addition, burning only when atmospheric conditions favor good smoke dispersal will minimize smoke impacts to crew members. Treatment for those with symptoms of smoke exposure is to move the victim to a smoke-free area. Severe exposure will require medical treatment.