Forest fire smoke poses serious health risks in France

Increasing forest fires in France are generating smoke that contains fine particles, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds and other pollutants. The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES) warns that exposure can cause short‑term respiratory irritation, asthma attacks, cough and, in severe cases, emergency‑room visits or hospitalisation. About 90 % of fire ignitions are human‑caused, and climate‑driven hotter, drier conditions are expanding the risk northward beyond the traditional southern forests.

Health experts suggest practical measures to lessen the impact on the lungs. Herbal infusions of thyme and ground ivy may aid bronchial relaxation, while dietary antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, broccoli and garlic support detoxification. Maintaining adequate hydration and practising diaphragmatic breathing are also recommended to improve mucociliary clearance and reduce inflammation.