Bushfire smoke contains fine particles that can irritate your eyes, nose, throat and lungs. It is important that you take steps to reduce your time in smoky air.
Some people are more sensitive to bushfire smoke and should take extra precautions to protect their health.
If it is smoky and you live in an area where a bushfire is possible, check and follow any emergency warnings associated with threats from bushfires. Visit
NSW Rural Fire Service - Fires Near Me to check for active warnings in your area.
Steps you can take to be protected from bushfire smoke
Follow your doctor’s advice about how to stay safe
if you are more sensitive to smoke. Actively monitor for symptoms and follow your health action plan (for example an Asthma Action Plan), if you have one. Keep your medication close by.
Spend more time indoors and avoid outdoor activity as much as possible.
Keep the air inside your home as clean as possible.
To do this:
- close windows and doors and open them when air quality improves
- switch your air conditioner to recirculate if it has this function
- do not use evaporative coolers because they bring outdoor air inside
- avoid indoor sources of air pollution like cigarettes, vapes, candles and incense sticks
- consider using an air purifier with a high efficiency particle air (HEPA) filter to remove smoke from your indoor air. To work well, the purifier must be used in small, well-sealed areas. Humidifiers, negative ion generators and odour absorbers do not remove fine particles in bushfire smoke.
Spend time in air-conditioned venues like public libraries and shopping centres. If bushfire smoke is affecting you inside your home, consider spending time at the home of a friend or family member where there is less smoke.
Call Triple Zero
000 if you or anyone in your care is experiencing a medical emergency, such as trouble breathing or chest pain or tightness.
