Fire in Mayenne: health risks and protective measures

The fire broke out in the Congrier area, at the location known as "la Taugerie," in Renazé.

86 firefighters, including 2 forest fire intervention teams (Maine-et-Loire and Vendée), are deployed on site. Rescue operations are still ongoing.

Smoke emitted by fires can travel tens, or even hundreds, of kilometers depending on weather conditions. It may cause temporary deterioration in air quality, comparable to a period of intense pollution.

During the fire: minimize exposure to smoke

• Listen to instructions issued by local authorities.
• Avoid direct exposure to smoke.
• Limit outdoor activities and time spent outside.
• Keep doors and windows closed; only ventilate if conditions allow.
• Block air grilles or vents with damp cloths.
• Turn off mechanical ventilation (VMC) or central air treatment systems (CTA).
• Avoid outdoor physical activities in the area.
• Monitor indoor air quality: avoid incense, candles, etc.
• Monitor at-risk individuals.

At-risk individuals (asthma, chronic respiratory insufficiency, heart failure) must wear an FFP2 mask if directly exposed to smoke.

If respiratory discomfort persists, consult a doctor. In case of emergency, call 15.

After the fire: precautions during cleaning

• Avoid all contact with soot, ash, and dust.
• In case of contact, immediately wash with regular soap; rinse eyes with physiological saline if necessary.
• Wear gloves and an FFP2 mask for at-risk individuals or pregnant women.
• Clean surfaces with water only: moist wipes, damp mops.
• Clean toys and objects that children may put in their mouths.
• For smooth surfaces, use glass cleaner or water with detergent.
• Outside: clean with water, detergent, or moist wipes.
• Wash outdoor-stored items (strollers, scooters, toys) before use.
• Do not use vacuum cleaners, blowers, high-pressure washers, or dry sweeping.
• Clean ducts, vents, and filters of ventilation systems before restarting operations.
• Wash hands after outdoor activities or after removing gloves.

Food and water

• Carefully wash garden fruits and vegetables with water; peel root vegetables and tubers.
• Do not consume fruits and vegetables soiled by soot.
• Consume only eggs sold in stores; avoid eggs from private poultry farms.
• Do not feed animals intended for consumption with contaminated food.
• Do not use rainwater.
• Tap water remains safe to drink.
• Drain standing water: let indoor taps run for two minutes before drinking.
• Check pool functionality: filtration, disinfection, and removal of debris.

When to consult?

• If experiencing medical discomfort, contact your primary care physician.
• 15 is reserved for life-threatening emergencies.

Useful links

• Wildfires: what effects on our health?
• Real-time air quality – Air Pays de la Loire