Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) is sharing its top tips to help Victorians look after their health as planned burnings start underway across the State.
Sharing its top 10 tips, the Agency warned that locals might smell or notice smoke during peak periods of planned burning by the FFMVic and partner Agencies including the Country Fire Authority.
“Planned burning is essential to protect the community property, the environment and critical infrastructure from bushfires,” FFMVic said.
“Carrying out these burns, which are sometimes referred to in the news as back burns or controlled burns, helps to reduce the size, intensity and impact of future bushfires,” it said.
“The smoky conditions can stay around for a few days or a few weeks and may affect the health of those with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, young children and older people.”
FFMVic said people could look after their health during smoky conditions by: Staying indoors; Consulting their doctor if they had a medical condition; Using towels to cover gaps around doors and windows; and Setting air conditioners to recycle or recirculate.
It also advised people to: Avoid burning candles and vacuuming; Avoid physical activity; Visit somewhere air conditioned; Use an indoor air with a high efficiency particle air (HEPA) filter; Visit friends or relatives outside the smoke-affected area; and Air out their home when there was a break in the smoke.
“We recommend you register to be notified of planned burns near your home or business via this notification system,” the Forest Fire Management said.
“All official burns are registered on this site and regular updates are provided,” it said.
“You can also stay up to date on active planned burns and critical smoke events through the Emergency Victoria website or app.”
FFMVic’s planned burn notification system can be accessed at this PS News link and the Emergency Victoria website at this link.
