Wildfires Impact Children’s Physical and Mental Health: What can Schools Do?

Source: Oerther et al. (2024), The Effects of Wildfires on the Mental and Physical Health of School-Age Children in North America: A Scoping Review. Journal of Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing

Criteria for selection: This source was selected as it highlights the growing impact of wildfires on children’s health, well-being, and education, emphasizing the need for proactive, equity-focused strategies that are highly relevant to K–12 leadership and emergency preparedness planning. Peer Reviewed.

LEARN Brief Credits: Dr. Jeannie Haubert

Overview:

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and severity, exposing more children to smoke and displacement. This scoping review summarizes research showing significant physical, mental, and academic impacts on school-age children.
For K-12 leaders, wildfire and smoke events are no longer rare emergencies — they are predictable environmental stressors that demand year-round planning.

Key Insights: 

1. Physical Health Risks Rise with Smoke Exposure: Children experience higher rates of asthma, respiratory distress, and infection during wildfire events.
2. Mental Health and Learning Disruptions Are Significant: Wildfire-related stress, anxiety, and displacement affect focus, attendance, and learning.

Action Steps: 

1. Develop a district “Smoke & Fire Response Plan” with clear AQI thresholds to include in the budget for air-quality improvements in high-risk schools.
2. Track daily AQI and adjust outdoor activity accordingly and upgrade HVAC systems and install HEPA or MERV-rated filters.
3. Embed mental-health support into emergency plans and train staff to recognize stress reactions.
4. Under-resourced schools have the greatest risks due to poorer infrastructure and fewer health supports. Prioritize facility upgrades and targeted interventions to close these gaps.

Full Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39545331/