#MaskforFires is a campaign led by a number of concerned Canadians and businesses to promote the benefits of masks in protecting people from harmful forest fire smoke being made worse by climate change.
Wildfire smoke: A toxic mix of pollutants
Wildfire smoke contains a toxic mix of particulate matter, carbon monoxide and other harmful pollutants that can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to short-term and long-term respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and even premature death.
Wildfire season has already begun
Wildfire season has started early this year driven by climate change. Poor air quality is likely to reach dangerous levels in many communities across Canada which can pose serious health risks and make existing health conditions worse.
Wearing High Quality Masks can Protect your Health
Unlike cloth masks or surgical masks, respirator masks provide superior protection against fine particulate matter, ensuring that individuals can breathe safely even in dense smoke. By wearing respirators, individuals can significantly reduce their exposure to harmful pollutants and safeguard their respiratory health.
Canadian made respirators are the best protection
The ‘Masks for Fires’ campaign calls on individuals and communities across Canada to protect their health by wearing respirators (N95) Masks this spring and summer when air quality is made worse by wildfire smoke.
Stepping up to the Challenge
As the ongoing threat of wildfires and hazardous smoke grows, a new Masks for Fires campaign, led by Canada Masq and Masks4Canada, launches June 1, 2024. As part of the Campaign, Canada Masq will give away 30,000 high quality respirators to vulnerable communities across Canada. Partners are needed in BC, Alberta and Ontario to coordinate and distribute masks to communities who need them.
Canada Masq
Anthony Zhao, CEO
Canada Masq makes respirators that are specifically designed to filter out 95% of airborne particles, including those found in wildfire smoke.
As the frequency and intensity of wildfires increases, and the presence of wildfire smoke and particulate matter expands, the risks to public health are growing rapidly,” says Anthony Zhao CAO with Canada Masq. “The threat of hazardous forest fire smoke has never been more urgent so we’re donating high quality Respirators to help the most vulnerable prepare.”
Masks4Canada
Dr. Joe Vipond, Campaign Lead
Masks4Canada is an independent organization created by Canadian front line physicians and other caring Canadians promoting the benefits of masks for infection disease control and personal protection, including protection from forest fire smoke.
“We urge individuals to stay informed about air quality conditions in their area and to wear N95 respirator masks whenever outdoor air quality is compromised by wildfire smoke,” says Dr. Joe Vipond of Masks4Canada “This is especially important for those required to be outdoors for prolonged periods of time, like outdoor workers. Additionally, avoiding vigorous outdoor exercise, using air purifiers, and keeping windows and doors closed during poor air quality days will help minimize exposure to smoke.”
Take Action
Help Distribute Masks
Canada Masq is giving away more than 30,000 high quality respirators to vulnerable communities across Canada. We're seeking Partners in BC, Alberta and Northern Ontario to distribute respirators to communities who need them.