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Tasmanians reminded to stay safe from bushfire smoke

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Tasmanians are reminded to stay safe from bushfire smoke, as many parts of the state experience very poor air quality. 

Smoke from large bushfires in the north-west of Tasmania is reaching many parts of the State and these smoky conditions are expected to continue over the coming days.

Smoky conditions are most likely to affect the north and north-west of the state but may occur anywhere as fire, wind and weather conditions change.

Director of Public Health, Dr Mark Veitch, said that the smoky conditions in the west and south of the state on Thursday evening and night resulted in some of the poorest air quality experienced by many Tasmanians for several years.

“I encourage all Tasmanians to be aware of their surroundings and know how to stay safe when it is smoky from bushfires,” said Dr Veitch.

“First, make sure you are safe from fire and always follow emergency advice. 

“Know how to reduce your exposure to smoke. This is particularly important for those at higher risk from smoky conditions.

“People at higher risk from smoky conditions include older people, babies, young children, pregnant women, and people living with medical conditions such as lung disease or asthma, diabetes or heart disease.

“If you’re likely to be in smoky conditions for more than a day or two, consider if you can safely temporarily relocate to a place unaffected by smoke.”

Know what to do if it is smoky: 

  • Stay up to date with TasAlert.
  • If you have a medical condition, make sure you can manage your symptoms and medications, and do all you can to avoid smoke.
  • Stay indoors and avoid physical activity outdoors.
  • Keep household doors and windows closed; if possible, turn home air-conditioners to re-circulate indoor air.
  • If safe to do so, consider temporarily staying with a friend or relative who lives away from the smoke-affected area, or whose home construction and ventilation reliably keep the smoke out.
  • If safe to do so, and available, consider visiting a nearby air-conditioned space like a shopping centre, library, or cinema.
  • Specialised P2/N95 masks will filter smoke particles but need an airtight seal on your face to work; this can be difficult to achieve, particularly for children. If you have heart or lung conditions, ask your doctor about using masks safely.
  • Consider using a portable air cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, set up in a well-sealed room the right size for the filter.
  • If you need medical advice, contact your GP, or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222. In an emergency, call 000. 

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