The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning today issued advice for poor air quality across North East Victoria and Great Dividing Range, including Kinglake Ranges and surrounds.
The current air quality is considered unhealthy for people with sensitivities.
- Smoke from fires burning on public and private land is currently affecting air quality in an area from North East Victoria including the Dividing Range and into Melbourne.
- A combination of smoke from planned burns, private agricultural burns, and wood heaters are contributing to poor air quality.
- Smoke can aggravate existing heart and lung conditions and cause irritated eyes, coughing and wheezing.
- Air quality is expected to remain poor until mid-morning tomorrow.
Smoke can affect people’s health. You should be aware of the impacts of smoke on you and your family’s health.
What you should do:
- Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing should call Triple Zero (000).
- If you have concerns about your health you should seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.
- For more information on smoke and your health visit the Better Health Channel.
If you’re sensitive to smoke:
- Some people are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke.
- You will be more sensitive to smoke if you have a heart or lung condition (including asthma), are pregnant, or are over 65. Children up to 14 are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke.
- If you are sensitive to smoke you should reduce prolonged or heavy physical activity. Where possible you should try to stay indoors.
- If you have a heart or lung conditions you should take your medication as prescribed by your doctor.
- If you are asthmatic, follow your asthma plan and carry reliever medication with you.
Impacts in your area:
- Current weather patterns are likely to result in smoke accumulating in low lying areas.
- Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is currently monitoring air quality in the area and
- It will be smoky or hazy in your area.
Health information:
- Check EPA’s air quality information: www.epa.vic.gov.au/EPAAirWatch.
Use multiple sources to stay informed:
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
- VicEmergency Hotline – freecall 1800 226 226.
- VicEmergency app.
- Facebook or Twitter.
- Kinglake Ranges News.
- Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
Accessibility:
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
- To access this information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
- If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.
