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Winnipeg Free Press
3 days ago
- Health
- Winnipeg Free Press
Wildfire smoke felt acutely by some, has longer-term health impacts
For Carol Lobb, 50, even a short walk outside can be dangerous. Born with a congenital heart defect and only one functioning lung, she navigates daily life with a range of heart, lung and breathing challenges — conditions that often go unseen and misunderstood. With wildfire smoke drifting into Winnipeg and nearby areas from Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, the air has become even more hazardous, raising health concerns for those with vulnerable conditions like hers. 'It's hard sometimes living with these invisible illnesses,' Lobb says. 'Especially when they don't fall neatly under the usual labels like asthma or COPD.' When the smoke rolls in, so do the symptoms: headaches, fatigue, a burning feeling in the chest, a mild cough and throat irritation. MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS For Carol Lobb, who was born with a congenital heart defect, the influx of wildfire smoke can shut down her daily routine. MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS For Carol Lobb, who was born with a congenital heart defect, the influx of wildfire smoke can shut down her daily routine. 'I've been in touch with my primary caregiver about coming into the clinic if I notice any signs of pulmonary distress, and I've looked into oxygen therapy as a precaution,' she says. In early June, Winnipeg's Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) reached 10+, a level classified as a very high health risk by Environment Canada. At this threshold, children, seniors and those with pre-existing conditions are advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Even healthy people may experience throat irritation or breathing difficulties after prolonged exposure. For Lobb, when the AQHI hits 10 or 11, daily life comes to a halt. Instead, she stays indoors, carefully monitors her symptoms and listens closely to her body. 'That's all I can do,' she says. Across the region, nearly 30,000 people in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba have been evacuated as wildfires continue to burn. Environment and Climate Change Canada reports that the heaviest smoke plumes are concentrated over central Manitoba and northwestern Ontario but have drifted south into the U.S. and even as far as Europe. 'It's hard sometimes living with these invisible illnesses … Especially when they don't fall neatly under the usual labels like asthma or COPD.'–Carol Lobb While wildfire smoke can affect anyone's health, even brief exposure poses greater risks to vulnerable groups such as older adults, young children, pregnant individuals and those with chronic illnesses. Wildfire smoke is a complex blend of gases, water vapour and particles of different sizes. While larger particles can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, the most concerning lies with fine particles known as PM2.5. These microscopic particles measure less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter — roughly 1/70 the width of a human hair — making them invisible to the naked eye. Dr. Scott Weichenthal, associate director of the McGill Centre for Climate Change and Health and professor in McGill's department of epidemiology, biostatistics and occupational health, says the most common early symptoms of wildfire smoke exposure include irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. Some people may also experience coughing, wheezing or overall respiratory discomfort. Supplied Dr. Scott Weichenthal, of McGill University, warns the smallest particles from wildfire smoke can even enter the bloodstream. Supplied Dr. Scott Weichenthal, of McGill University, warns the smallest particles from wildfire smoke can even enter the bloodstream. But PM2.5 particles, generated during combustion, are especially concerning because they can travel through your lungs and even enter the bloodstream, potentially contributing to a range of health issues. 'Once inhaled, PM2.5 particles can reach deep within our lungs as well as our systemic circulation,' Weichenthal says. 'These particles increase inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, impact our autonomic nervous system, blood coagulation, vascular function and other mechanisms broadly relevant to our overall health.' A recent study in Environmental Science & Technology, a journal published by the American Chemical Society, analyzed wildfire seasons in B.C. from 2016 to 2019. Researchers found that infants whose mothers were exposed to wildfire smoke during pregnancy had a higher likelihood of developing ear infections and lower respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, within their first year of life. While many symptoms may appear mild at first, Weichenthal stresses that the health risks of wildfire smoke extend beyond short-term respiratory issues, potentially leading to long-term health consequences, including cancer. 'Wildfire smoke contains many known human carcinogens, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and toxic metals. The exact composition depends on what's burning — whether it's forests, buildings, or other materials,' he says. 'Either way, it's a toxic mix of harmful components that poses significant risks to public health. We have much to learn about the long-term health risks of fires.' 'The key strategy is to reduce exposure. The more we can reduce population exposures, the more we can mitigate potential health risks.'–Dr. Scott Weichenthal Given these serious public health implications, Weichenthal has been vocal about the need for greater awareness and action. In the April 2025 issue of Nature Reviews Cancer, Weichenthal published an article titled 'We cannot ignore the cancer risks of wildfires.' In it, he highlights the increased cancer risk linked to repeated wildfire exposure in regions affected annually and advocates for practical, science-backed measures — such as using indoor air filtration — to help reduce harmful exposures. 'Unfortunately, we will be dealing with this issue for the rest of our lives,' he says. 'The key strategy is to reduce exposure. The more we can reduce population exposures, the more we can mitigate potential health risks.' Weichenthal's warning underscores the lasting impact wildfire smoke can have on people's health, especially those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. For Julia Frankfurt, 43, who lives with asthma and chronic seasonal allergies triggered by environmental factors, wildfire smoke adds another layer of difficulty to managing her symptoms. 'I have to be very fluid,' she says. 'Fortunately, I have the kind of job where I can work from home, and I have an air purifier here.' MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS Julia Frankfurt feels the effects of wildfire smoke acutely enough, it can lead to a trip to an emergency room. MIKAELA MACKENZIE / FREE PRESS Julia Frankfurt feels the effects of wildfire smoke acutely enough, it can lead to a trip to an emergency room. But when she's at the office, things are more complicated. 'We can only reduce it to about 10 per cent outside air, because there still has to be some external air coming in. I can't restrict the doors from opening, so you can smell the smoke inside the building.' The smoky air has made breathing more difficult, pushing her to rely more on her medication. 'I'm breathing heavily through my lungs pretty much every day,' she says. 'I've had to increase how often I use my inhalers to offset some of the symptoms. If it gets bad and my chest gets really tight, I'll have to go to the ER for a nebulizer treatment.' Even before the smoke smells strong, she feels its effects. 'When the smoke is on its way, I'll lose my voice within five to 10 minutes. I can feel it deep in my lungs. And then I start getting wheezy and my chest gets heavy.' 'Leading with kindness and understanding is so important. It might not seem like much from the outside, but it means everything to those who are struggling.'–Julia Frankfurt And it's not just her lungs. 'My eyeballs feel like they've got sand in them pretty much every day since fire season started. I buy eye drops and have to keep hydrating because they're so itchy.' When air quality drops, the most important thing Manitobans can do is stay informed and reduce their exposure as much as possible. 'The first step is to be aware of the air quality in your area. Tools like the AQHI developed by Health Canada and Environment Canada are an excellent resource,' Weichenthal says. When the AQHI shows a high risk, people are advised to stay indoors, keep windows closed and use a high-efficiency (HEPA) air purifier to filter out harmful particles. For those who need to be outside — such as construction or delivery workers — a properly fitted N95 mask can offer added protection against fine particles. There are also do-it-yourself solutions available: 'You can find instructions online to build your own air purifier (using a box fan and a furnace filter) with materials found at hardware stores,' Weichenthal adds. For Frankfurt, wildfire smoke isn't just a health concern — it also takes an emotional toll. Monthly What you need to know now about gardening in Winnipeg. An email with advice, ideas and tips to keep your outdoor and indoor plants growing. 'I don't know if it counts as anxiety or stress, but I just feel disappointed,' she says. 'We don't have a long summer, and I want to be outside. I love being in my garden. It's really frustrating not being able to do what I love.' That frustration can also feel isolating, especially when others don't fully grasp the impact. 'There are always people who say, 'Oh, it's not that bad.' I'm glad it's not that bad for them, but for some of us, it's much harder,' she explains. 'You can't always see conditions like asthma unless someone's using an inhaler or wearing a mask. For me, people only notice when my voice changes. Otherwise, I look like any average person.' What helps, she says, is simple compassion. 'Leading with kindness and understanding is so important. It might not seem like much from the outside, but it means everything to those who are struggling.' arts@ Sabrina CarnevaleColumnist Sabrina Carnevale is a freelance writer and communications specialist, and former reporter and broadcaster who is a health enthusiast. She writes a twice-monthly column focusing on wellness and fitness. Read full biography Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
CTV News
29-04-2025
- Politics
- CTV News
Midwestern Ontario stays blue, results closer than previous elections
Ben Lobb has been re-elected to his sixth consecutive term as an MP. Ben Lobb has been re-elected to his sixth consecutive term as an MP. Midwestern Ontario stayed Conservative on Monday night, but the results were certainly closer than in year's past. In Huron-Bruce, Liberal James Rice was leading after the first 20 polls, creating some tension at Ben Lobb's Conservative election night party in Lucknow. But, as more polls came in, Lobb, who has won the past five elections, pulled away, securing his record-setting sixth consecutive term, as Huron-Bruce's M.P. 'If this election would have been in October, we probably would have won by 40 or 50%. And we know that was largely people dislike Justin Trudeau. And so in January when he resigned, people obviously had a change in what they were thinking about. And then when Trump was inaugurated, that was another change. So, I knew it was going to be a close election, just by my conversations at the arena,' says Lobb. In Perth-Wellington, Conservative John Nater, secured his fourth straight win, keeping the riding, Conservative since it's creation in 2004. In Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, Alex Ruff took home his third straight victory, maintaining the Conservative stronghold. But all three races were closer than in year's past, as the New Democratic Party vote dropped in all three ridings, leading to the Liberals finishing a much closer second in all three Midwestern Ontario ridings. As an example, Ben Lobb won in 2021 by more than 15,000 votes. Monday's margin of victory, with 255 of 259 polls reporting, will be fewer than 10,000 votes. With similar, smaller margins of victory, for Nater and Ruff, than in election's past, as well.
BBC News
29-04-2025
- Automotive
- BBC News
Cornish businesses clash over 'unnecessary' car park plans
Plans to build a new car park are at the centre of a row between a farm shop business and one of Cornwall's most popular gardens. Earlier this month The Lost Gardens of Heligan near Mevagissey revealed it had applied for planning permission to create a 241 space car park on a field within its plans were submitted after the nearby Lobbs Family Farm Shop said it would start charging Heligan customers who use its field car park as overflow, citing "a lack of maintenance" by Heligan over the course of a now expired 25-year Lobb family called the plans "unnecessary" and highlighted the new car park would be built on Island Field, in an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). Both parties told the Local Democracy Reporting Service there have been unsuccessful negotiations between them to come to an agreement about the parking situation.A spokesperson for The Lost Gardens of Heligan said: "Their plan to introduce payment machines has led us to investigate increasing and improved Heligan managed parking capacity, including EV charging."The Lobb family has criticised Heligan's planning application, and said: "The car park agreement that was initiated over 25 years ago expired in 2023."A lack of maintenance in the field car park during the last 20 years of the lease with Heligan has led us to instigate changes."Ample, discreet parking with safe level access to the gardens already exists outside the AONB and this has served visitors for years."The new fees are due to be introduced on Tuesday 6 May, with the first hour's parking will be £2.50 for over an hour to two hours, £3.50 all day until 18:30 and £2.50 in the evening from 15:30 - 23:00.
Yahoo
12-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
‘Too good to be true': Fraud targets ads on Facebook Marketplace
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Imagine paying for a good or service online, receiving what you paid for and told you owe more money. A local attorney tells KXAN more people are coming to him in that situation after losing money on Facebook Marketplace. Attorney George Lobb said not everything posted on the site is what it seems. 'The ads will have a phone number that's not the business's phone number. It's the cellphone number for the scammer.' George Lobb, Attorney This year, Lobb said he received at least a half a dozen calls about people posing as legit companies and then stealing thousands. Specifically, he said the ads target Spanish-speakers and are focused on construction-related services. Lobb said someone will pose as a company on Facebook Marketplace, take someone's money and call the actual company they're posing as to then act as the customer they're targeting. 'Weeks later, the company says, 'Hey, you didn't pay us,'' Lobb said. 'The law says, well, yeah, technically you benefited from the service. So then you're going to have to sue the scammer when the company files the lien.' Lobb said one of his clients rented dumpsters for a discounted price of $5,000 via Facebook Marketplace. The ad posed as a well-known company. He received the dumpsters, but the actual company showed up later and told him he owed them $15,000 because they didn't receive payment. 'I've had several clients come to me because they either have liens filed on their property or they're threatened with criminal investigation for theft,' Lobb said. Lobb said it is unlikely a victim would get all their money back, but he's helped people recover some. 'They have caught a few and they are making payment plans while on probation,' Lobb said. Ultimately, he stressed the importance of verifying a company's phone number and physical location and asking a friend for their thoughts on the deal before going through with it. 'If it's too good to be true, it's too good to be true,' Lobb said. Katie Galan with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) said these fake ads online remain a top concern around the state. 'These person to person transactions is where we see a lot of these issues arise,' Galan said. 'Once that money is gone, that money is pretty much gone.' Galan said it's a red flag if a person is asking you to send them money before you received a product or service. 'With these person to person sellers, we really highly encourage you to meet at a neutral location,' Galan said. 'See the product in person first, before you hand over any sort of money or any deposit.' When it comes to how you pay, Galan recommended using a credit card for online purchases. She said people lost $1.5 million due to online purchase frauds like this in Texas. However, Galan said that number is likely a lot higher because only about 5-10% of people report the crime. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
BBC News
04-04-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Alvaston head teacher's hen-durance charity forfeit for pupils
A head teacher is set to walk 3.6 miles (5.8km) dressed as a chicken with a colleague who will wear a fried egg costume, after making a fundraising pledge to pupils. Graham Lobb promised children at St John Fisher Catholic Voluntary Academy in Derby they would take on the challenge on Friday, if they managed to raise £1,000 for Lobb will walk from the school in Alvaston to St Mary's Church in the city centre and be accompanied by colleague Nathalie than being cooped up inside, the schoolchildren have been walking to reach their fundraising target for CAFOD, an international Catholic aid agency. "It's about having some fun with fundraising, the children have really enjoyed the walking and the fact that myself and Miss Woodings are going to dress up and do this, it's creating a bit of excitement around school," Mr Lobb money raised by the children for CAFOD will go towards chickens for vulnerable families in Kenya, to provide produce they can sell to earn a living, and the charity will provide training on how to look after the birds. 'Looking silly' Each class at St John Fisher has been set the target of walking 211 miles (339.5km) the distance between nine jubilee churches in the Diocese of extra 200 miles was walked across the whole school to bring the grand total to 1,411 miles - the distance from the school to the Vatican."The whole school has been fundraising so it's close to 190 children, so roughly each child needs five people to sponsor them £1."I didn't feel it was an unrealistic target amount with the current challenges that everyone's got with the cost of living," Mr Lobb said colleagues and friends had pledged to make up the difference if students struggled to reach the target of £1,000."They all want to see me looking silly dressed as a chicken and to be brutally honest I think my mum will also be doing the same thing as well, and my wife, because they want to see me dressed up, they want to see me looking silly," Mr Lobb said.
