Hazard Reduction Smoke Advisory | NSW

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Hazard Reduction Smoke Advisory - NSW

Published: 26 Apr 2024 05:02pm

Smoke from planned hazard reduction burns being undertaken by fire agencies and land managers today and across the weekend may settle in areas including the South Coast, Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys, Narrabri, Warrumbungle and Sydney regions.

Forecast light winds, along with forecast overnight inversions will see residual smoke from these burns settle in some areas over the next few days, especially on Sunday morning.

These are important controlled burns which will reduce the risk to people and properties from bush fires.

NSW Health reminds people that children, older adults and people with heart and lung conditions are most susceptible to the effects of air pollution and excessive smoke.

If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities if smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice.

Asthma sufferers need to follow their Asthma Action Plan and take their relieving medication where necessary. If symptoms get worse, seek medical advice. Further advice is available from the Asthma Foundation website https://asthma.org.au [external link]

Here are some tips to stay safe during hazard reduction burning.

• Monitor the RFS hazard reduction page for information about planned burns and smoke advisories in your area.
• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke from entering your home.
• Remove washing from clotheslines.
• Ensure pets have a protected area.
• If you're driving through a smoky area, slow down, keep your windows up and turn your headlights on.
• Don't call Triple Zero just to report that it's smoky. Save Triple Zero for emergencies.

Important links

• NSW Health - Bush fire smoke and health - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/bushfire/Pages/bushfire-protection.aspx [external link]
• Department of Planning and Environment - Current and Forecast Air Quality - https://www.airquality.nsw.gov.au [external link]
• NSW Rural Fire Service - Hazard reduction schedule and map - https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/hazard-reductions [external link]