Wildfire smoke is seen in the air in downtown Edmonton on Thursday, May 30.
With wildfire smoke becoming a regular occurrence the University of Alberta is launching a new study to examine how it’s affecting Canadians.
Scientists from the U of A, including undergraduate student researchers, are using an online survey format to get input.
“The survey is examining the general public’s perception of and response to the risk of wildfire smoke,” said Devon Healey, an undergraduate student conducting the research as part of his thesis in a news release.
“Wildfires are becoming much more intense and frequent, and — especially in Canada — wildfires are becoming a much more regular part of the landscape.”
As wildfire smoke becomes more and more common, there is an increased need to understand how Canadians perceive the risk of wildfire smoke and how they respond to it.
“The results of this survey will provide information for government agencies responsible for reducing impacts of wildfire smoke,” Healey said.
Involving undergraduates in research provides opportunities to work on real-world science, said Tara McGee, a professor in the department of earth and atmospheric sciences and Healey’s supervisor.
“Active involvement in research is an excellent opportunity for students and, in this case, it’s especially important as wildfire smoke and its effects have received little attention by researchers,” McGee said.
“We want to learn more about the perception of the risk and whether people plan to take action to reduce their exposure — as well as from people who have experienced wildfire smoke and whether they have made any changes to reduce their exposure or experienced any health effects.”
The survey can be completed online until Jan. 31, 2020.
