(live here) – Lag BaOmer is a holiday of fire, light, and connection to tradition. But for hundreds of thousands of Israelis, especially asthmatics, the heavy smoke from the bonfires can make the holiday a dangerous experience.
This year (2025), amid concerns about heat waves and fires, Israel's Fire and Rescue Commissioner, Lt. Col. Eyal Caspi, issued a blanket order prohibiting the lighting of bonfires and fires in open areas and disaster-prone areas. Nevertheless, quite a few bonfires are still expected to be lit, and along with them, an expected increase in the number of emergency room visits due to breathing difficulties.
The smoke emitted from the fires contains tiny particles and toxic gases, which can trigger asthma attacks and worsen the condition of lung patients, children, the elderly, and even pregnant women.
According to Dr. Yasmine Khatib-Atallah, a pulmonary medicine specialist, head of the Severe Asthma Clinic and deputy director of the Lung Institute at Rambam, smoke from a campfire is dangerous even with brief exposure, and is a real health hazard: "Campfire smoke is a classic trigger for worsening asthma, even among patients whose condition is stable. It penetrates the lungs, causes inflammation of the airways, and leads to shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and sometimes even hospitalization."
Studies show that exposure to campfire smoke increases the risk of asthma attacks and emergency room visits by up to 30%, especially among children under 5, adults over 65, and pregnant women. In addition, there is an increase in the use of steroids and rescue medications, and the effects of exposure can last for days.
What do we do to avoid danger?
If you or your child suffers from asthma or any chronic respiratory problem, it is important to prepare in advance: Stay away from fires, even if they are small. It is better to stay in open areas or indoors with clean air. Close windows, especially in the evening, when the smoke spreads — this will prevent the penetration of polluting particles. Equip yourself with an emergency inhaler, make sure it is charged and within reach. If necessary, use it in advance before leaving the house.
Consult a doctor. Chronically ill people, especially children, should receive clear instructions for the holiday. Use quality masks — N95 masks or masks with filters can filter out harmful particles. Avoid physical activity near bonfires, as such activity increases breathing rate and smoke penetration into the lungs.
When is it necessary to seek treatment?
Contact a doctor or emergency room immediately if one or more of the following symptoms appear:
- Severe shortness of breath
- Wheezing that doesn't go away
- Increasing use of inhalers
- Chest pressure
- Unusual fatigue