A health alert has been issued for Illawarra people with chronic health conditions due to ongoing bushfire smoke.
Air quality has been rated as 'fair' for Thursday, September 14, due to a huge, 2700 hectare hazard reduction burn taking place in Holsworthy Military Barracks.
People with a heart or lung conditions, including asthma; people age 65 years or older; infants and children; and pregnant women are urged to take precautions.
NSW Health advice:
- Reduce outdoor physical activity if you develop symptoms such as cough or shortness of breath.
- Consider closing windows and doors until outdoor air quality is better.
- Follow the treatment plan recommended by your doctor.
- If you are concerned about symptoms call the 24-hour HealthDirect helpline on 1800 022 222 or see your doctor.
- In a health emergency, call triple-0 for an ambulance.
"You are at higher risk if you are older, a child, pregnant or have a heart or lung disease like asthma or emphysema. Smoke particles can make some heart and lung conditions like angina, asthma and emphysema worse," NSW Health said.
The burn-off will continue until Thursday. Stay up-to-date with fires in your area on the Hazards Near Me app.
Reading this on mobile web? Download our news app. It's faster, easier to read and we'll send you alerts for breaking news as it happens. Download in the Apple Store or Google Play.
Nadine Morton
Breaking news journalist at the Illawarra Mercury. Email: nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Breaking news journalist at the Illawarra Mercury. Email: nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
