Forest fires fill the air with a choking mix of smoke, ash and dust, making every breath feel like a battle. Still, wildland firefighters enter the fray to protect our communities from flames. It shouldn’t cost them their health. UBC Okanagan’s Dr. Madden Brewster studies what’s in their air and what happens to wildland firefighters’ health the longer they breathe it. “It’s crucial that we understand the long-term health risks firefighters face so we can develop effective interventions to protect them,” she says. “Our work ensures they have the information and tools they need to stay safe and healthy on the fire lines.” …Dr. Brewster and the BC Wildfire Service will monitor and collect data from 54 crew members. …Dr. Brewster’s research can help identify high-risk tasks and conditions, informing improvements in firefighting techniques and strategies for crew rest and rotation to minimize health risks.