If you have been outside in the last couple of days you will have noticed that the air is quite misty in some parts of the Far North Coast.
People with respiratory conditions are being urged to take care.
High air pollution levels in some areas of Northern NSW this week are the result of high winds transporting dust and smoke from hazard reduction burns into the area.
Assistant Director of North Coast Public Health, Greg Bell, said children, older adults and people with heart and lung conditions are most susceptible to the effects of air pollution and excessive smoke.
‘Dust and smoke may aggravate existing heart and lung conditions and cause irritated eyes, coughing and wheezing,’ said Mr Bell.
‘If you have asthma you should follow your Asthma Action Plan and take your relieving medication where necessary, and if symptoms get worse, seek medical advice.
Mr Bell said when it is particularly dusty or smoky, stay indoors with doors and windows closed and follow your health plan.
‘To minimise any negative effects of air pollution, people should also consider avoiding vigorous exercise and seek out air-conditioned premises.
‘It’s also a good idea for people with known health conditions to check the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment website for air quality information and the NSW Rural Fire Service website for regular updates on planned burns’
In case of emergency always remember to dial triple zero.
For more information about bushfire smoke / dust and health, visit the NSW Health website and
www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/dust-storms.aspx.
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