Smoke contains pollutants that can cause a serious threat to human health. The major pollutants of concern are PM-10 and PM-2.5 (particulate matter less than 10 microns and 2.5 microns in size, respectively). Other pollutants include hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, benzene, aldehydes, and other toxic chemicals. Immediate health effects from particulate matter include burning and itching eyes, shortness of breath, and asthma attacks. Long-term exposure increases the chance of cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses, cancer, and premature death.
The EPA publication titled How Smoke From Fires Can Effect Your Health can provide you with more information on the health effects from smoke.
