Hazard reduction burns - NSW
Published: 04 Aug 2023 10:10am
A number of hazard reduction burns are scheduled for the Greater Sydney Metropolitan, Hunter Valley areas.
Smoke from these burns is likely to settle across residential areas for the coming days due to light forecast winds. It is expected that smoke will start to clear on Saturday afternoon with any remaining smoke clearing during Sunday.
Smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning can affect some people more than others.
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/triggers/wood-heaters-woodfires-and-bushfires/ [external link]
More health information is available online at https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/bushfire-smoke.aspx [external link]
Here are some tips to stay safe during hazard reduction burning.
- Monitor the NSW 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 (000) just to report that it’s smoky. Save Triple Zero (000) for emergencies.
- Sightseers must keep away from burns for their own safety.
For more information and a list and map of planned hazard reduction burns, visit https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr [external link]
Updated: 04 Aug 2023 10:29am
Related safety topics
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Most people have a plan for what they will do during a bushfire. Unfortunately, not every plan will withstand the test of a bushfire. Take 5 minutes to improve or make a plan at www.myfireplan.com.au [external link]
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]