Re-Imagining Occupational Smoke Mitigation Strategies for Canadian Wildland Firefighters: A Participatory Study
Our team united with a common passion for tackling the problem of air pollution exposure and our current mission is to improve health and safety for wildland firefighters in Canada who are exposed to smoke for many months.
Focused on enhancing respiratory protective equipment tailored to the unique challenges of wildland fire contexts, our interdisciplinary team aims to empower and engage with those on the front lines. Our overarching goal is to develop innovative solutions that effectively mitigate risks, ensuring the well-being of wildland firefighters, and bridging the gap between evidence and impact to protect our protectors during wildfire season.
Background
Our project emerged from a shared concern for the health and safety of wildland firefighters facing increasingly challenging conditions.
Recognizing the critical role respiratory protective equipment plays in their well-being, we assembled a diverse team of engineers, researchers, and experienced wildland firefighters. Through collaborative efforts and a human-centered design approach, we aim to improve and innovate existing equipment to better align the demands of wildland firefighting.
By combining technical expertise with on-the-ground insights, we aspire to contribute meaningful advancements to the field, ultimately enhancing the protection and resilience of those who safeguard our wildlands during fire seasons.
Through iterative collaboration and a deep understanding of on-the-ground realities, our project aspires to make meaningful advancements in the field, ultimately contributing to the heightened protection and resilience of those who tirelessly safeguard our wildlands.
Project team
- Sumegha Jain
- Janna Mohamed
- Arani Ravichandra