The Department of Health has urged the public to take care as smoke haze blankets some areas of the State after prescribed burns.
The Department said exposure to smoke from fires could exacerbate asthma and other respiratory conditions, cause coughing and shortness of breath, and temporarily irritate the eyes, nose and throat.
The Department advised people to undertake a number of precautions in order to minimise exposure to environmental smoke if they considered themselves to be at risk.
“We advise people to switch off air conditioners that do not allow for the fresh air intake, and to shut doors and windows of their houses,” it said.
“You should stay inside if possible. This is particularly important for people with asthma and other respiratory conditions.”
The Department said everyone should aim to limit outdoors exercise or avoid it completely.
People can seek relief from smoke inside a shopping centre or other suitable public building,” it said.
“Anyone experiencing negative health effects from environmental smoke are urged to seek medical attention from their GP or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222.”
Prescribed burns are an important weapon in the Fire and Emergency Services’ armoury to guard against excessive vegetation which, after a prolonged dry period, could be a bushfire hazard.
