WARNING: SMOKE FROM HAZARD REDUCTION BURNS

NSW Health is warning people to take precautions as smoke from hazard reduction burns in and around the Blue Mountains may affect air quality today and into the weekend, especially in the mountains and Western Sydney.

NSW Health’s Director of Environmental Health Dr Stephen Conaty said smoke can have serious health effects, especially for people with existing heart and lung conditions.

“Smoke particles in the air can irritate the eyes and airways, and for most people, this causes temporary symptoms like a cough and a sore throat,” Dr Conaty said.

“However, smoke particles that get into the lung can worsen pre-existing health conditions like angina, asthma, emphysema and diabetes, potentially causing serious illness.

“In particular we’re urging people to take precautions with infants, young children, and people over 65 years of age who may be more sensitive to the effects of smoke.”

People across Sydney should monitor the air quality levels where they are and follow the recommended health advice. Air quality information and health messages are available at NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment – Air Quality Index (AQI) data.

General tips to decrease risk from smoke:

• Follow your doctor’s advice about medicines and your asthma management plan if you have one. Keep your medication close at hand. Consult your doctor if symptoms worsen. In an emergency always call 000.
• Monitor air quality: Air quality information and a health activity guide are available at https://www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/air-quality/air-quality-concentration-data-updated-hourly.
• Avoid vigorous outdoor activity when it’s smoky, children especially should avoid unnecessary outdoor activities including vigorous exercise, sightseeing and outdoor play when it is smoky.
• Spend more time indoors: Keep doors and windows closed in your home until the smoke clears. Air quality is also generally better in air-conditioned venues such as cinemas, libraries and shopping centres.
• Keep indoor air cleaner by ensuring if you have an air purifier with a high efficiency particle air (HEPA) filter or an air-conditioner that it does not draw in air from outside to keep indoor air cleaner.
• Spend time in air-conditioned buildings like public libraries and shopping centres or the home of a friend or family member where there is less smoke.
• Wear a P2 or N95 mask to protect from some of the smoke if you are unable to avoid it. To be effective the mask must fit your face well with an air-tight seal.

More information can be found at the NSW Health website: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/bushfire/Pages/bushfire-protection.aspx