With bushfires burning across the state, Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is providing regular air-quality updates.
EPA is monitoring air quality using its stationary and mobile monitoring stations and publishing them as soon as possible on its website and also through social media.
The authority is also reminding Victorians that the best smoke detector is their nose and if they can smell smoke there is always a health risk, especially for those with existing respiratory or other health issues.
Those experiencing health issues from the fires or smoke, such as trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort or tightness in the chest, should call triple-zero for an ambulance.
Smoke can also cause short-term discomfort in healthy adults, though symptoms in eyes, noses and throats usually cease once away from smokey areas.
To minimise risk, those living in smoke affected areas should reduce outdoor physical activity, use a portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter if they have access to one and use a P2 or N95 mask when outdoors.
Switching air-conditioners to recirculate or reuse air is also recommended and if they don’t have this function, turn them off completely if the temperature inside the home is tolerable.
Evaporative coolers should be avoided as they draw external air into the house.
Further information: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/using-air-conditioners-when-its-smoky-outside
To check air-quality: https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/check-air-and-water-quality
